Fall Release AIdan Pinot Noir
2004

Winemaker’s Notes

A significant departure for us, our premier release under this designation is the first and only DuMol bottling to exclusively feature the popular Dijon Pinot clones. These shy-bearing Burgundian selections tend to favor pure fruit concentration in contrast to the earthier, more succulent soil-driven character of our favored Californian heritage selections. Sundawg Ridge and Wildrose vineyards have become two of our favorite sources since their first harvest in 2002 and these neighboring sites complement each other perfectly to produce a bottling that highlights the best that young vine Californian Pinot has to offer. Sitting at the top of the ridgeline, the two acre clone 115 block at Sundawg Ridge lies above the fog line, its south facing hillside absorbing the intense sunlight to produce small berries bursting with coastal fruit intensity. In contrast, the three acre Wildrose planting is at the foot of the ridge in heavier soil and ripens a full two weeks later to provide wines of great tannic depth and bright acid structure. The blend is dynamic in its youthful exotic vibrancy and bold clean structure. Quite a different style for us, this is a great addition to our Designate program and sure to be a long term favorite.

The darkest of our 2004 Pinot wines with a bright ruby/purple color. Soaring aromatics of incredibly intense black raspberries, fresh herbs, wild flowers and allspice. Great purity of fresh pinot fruit flavors with cassis, ripe plum and floral violet. Lovely vibrancy weaves its way through the core of the wine to a lengthy persistent finish which features solid, assertive tannins, bright zesty acidity and a hint of a developing truffle note. Enjoyable early for its exuberant bright fruit core, with 3 to 6 years cellaring typical Green Valley notes of sweet plum and truffle will further intensify. Serve no warmer than 62 degrees to enjoy the wine's full range of flavor freshness.

Andy Smith