2019 Green Valley Pinot Noir

WINEMAKER NOTES

This wine is a blend from several vineyards and Pinot Noir clones, each of which contributes something unique to the finished wine. The backbone of the blend is from the late-ripening Ferguson Vineyard (Swan Clone) which lends dark, intense fruit and tannins to the wine. The Giberti Vineyard (Clone 115) ripens earlier in a slightly warmer area of the valley while the Swicegood Vineyard (Clone 777, 667, 115) has soils that are reminiscent of those in Burgundy: rich in clay and calcareous. Grapes are destemmed and go through native fermentation in open-top vats with hand punchdowns before being aged in French oak barrels.

VINEYARD NOTES

In the western hills of the Russian River Valley, the small Green Valley appellation is one of Sonoma Countys coolest regions. Evening fog rolls in over from the Pacific Ocean to temper the warm summer days. These optimal conditions extend the growing season, encouraging flavor concentration in the berries while soils rich in minerals from an ancient seabed infuse the fruit with nuanced flavors.

TASTING NOTES

Immediately from the glass you experience notes of black cherry accented by cinnamon. Layers of raspberry and red cherry flavors are intermixed with vanilla and baking spice. Moderate acidity and firm, round tannins create a exquisite velvety texture on the palate that leads to a long and endearing finish.