Fall Release Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir
2007

Winemaker’s Notes

This collaborative effort, six years in the making, finally bears fruit in the shape of our first Estate Pinot bottling, which has me (albeit modestly!) scrambling for superlatives. Our east facing, gently sloping, high density vineyard site chose a great year to flex its inaugural muscles. The small vines produced berries brimming with youthful vibrancy, powerful structure and ultimately, compelling complexity. The increased root competition between these tightly spaced plants results in small clusters and thick skins which ripen at lower sugar levels but critically contain measurably higher acidity, flavor precursors and inherent structure. Tannin levels are not only elevated, but their quality is harmonious and supple. As the wine mellows in the glass, the ingredient flavors merge to show a level of completeness normally reserved for wines made from the oldest vines, yet the focus of the wine remains bright and pure throughout. The exciting quality of this first year of production promises many great vintages in the future.

Deep ruby color. Initially taut, then opens with air to show multilayered aromatics: cola, dried flowers, fresh cherry notes and deeper kirsch and earth tones. Immediate youthful intensity: crunchy red fruit and crisp plum flavors that are vibrant and precise. Darkens and broadens to kirsch and wild berry with mouth-coating concentration. A broad swath of acidity maintains focus to a youthfully tannic finish. Decant for an hour in its first few years of youth and drink between 2010 and 2018.

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner