Fall Release Sonoma Stage Vineyard Eoin Pinot Noir
2009

Winemaker’s Notes

Our ‘Eoin’ bottling from the Sonoma Stage Vineyard makes a welcome reappearance after skipping the 2008 vintage due to frost damage. Consistently among our favorite vineyards since its 2004 debut, the superb 2007 vintage release is currently entering its early plateau of maturity with many years of positive aging ahead and this delicious follow-up holds equal promise. This cold wind-swept site ripens a full three weeks after our Green Valley vineyards and possesses an indelible natural identity. The rocky volcanic soils combine with the wind to induce positive stress on the vines which struggle to produce a small crop of intensely flavored smallberried clusters. The intensity of aroma and flavor produced is therefore hard earned and translates into wines that are dramatic in their youth but mellow with age into subtle earthy complexity. After three or four years in the bottle the vineyard signature seems to multiply exponentially but don’t be afraid to age this wine for at least eight years as it has plenty of coastal structure and the fruit-tannin-acid balance typical of the greatest aging wines.

Deep ruby/purple tinged color. Piercing dark fruit aromas, cassis, grassy dried herb, earth and black tea. Deep and penetrating raspberry and black fruit core but retains brightness and aromatic lift. Elegant floral innermouth perfume. Broad mid-palate but currently structured and youthfully tight. Flush of zesty acidity brings energy to a lengthy finish. Drink between 2012 and 2020.

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner