Spring Release Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
2008

Winemaker’s Notes

Our 2008 RRV Pinot Noir is reminiscent of the delicious 2006 release, as they both combine gorgeous coastal fruit purity with charming upfront drinkability. It was a challenging year for Pinot Noir due to spring frosts, wild fires and harvest heat issues. Yields were reduced in all vineyards, which brought an element of natural concentration to the wines. Intense heat at harvest prompted us to incorporate some whole clusters in our fermentations to keep the wines fresh and lively and this has lent a lovely crunchy red fruit and subtle gamey character to the wine. As it opens, however, the typical RRV broad nuanced texture takes control. The combination is quite compelling. We introduced the Terra di Promissio Vineyard this year, which has brought an intense wave of punchy bright fruit to the wine and combines perfectly with the darker wild berry Widdoes lots. Additionally, we blended our Sonoma Stage Vineyard lots into this bottling, (source of our wonderful 2007 eoin release) which has lent a dark penetrating earthy character. The DuMOL Estate component also shines through with its elegant spicy dark cherry influence with complex tea leaf side notes. The combination is immediately juicy and vibrant becoming effortlessly balanced without any heaviness or excess weight. The tannins and lively acid combine nicely to offer solid midterm aging potential.

Medium dark ruby red; delicate spring flower aromas deepen to violet, allspice and a note of tea leaf. Bright crunchy red fruits open the palate then darken to black raspberry, ripe plum and black cherry. Great purity of Pinot fruit with some richer gamey notes and a spicy sassafras edge. Intense flush of dark fruit on the chewy and flavor-packed extended finish. Beautifully combines concentration & elegance in this naturally forward vintage. Drink on release for its lovely freshness or cellar for 6 to 8 years for increasing richness.

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner