Pacific Wind Pinot Noir 2021
2021 was a long, cool growing season. The combination of variable weather and strong winds in the spring slowed development and affected bloom and set that created variable yields in the vineyards. However, the lower yields and mild summer weather allowed us ample time to patiently wait for optimal flavors and phenolic ripeness and pick each block on Edna Ranch at just the right moment.
Vineyard
Grapes for this wine came predominantly from the Hollister section of Edna Ranch, planted to the historic HMR clone mixed with small amounts of Monighetti and Jack Ranch which are planted to Dijon and Wädenswil clones, a unique combination of terroirs and clones that provide complexity in the finished wine.
Winemaking
After optical sorting and destemming, grapes were cold soaked for three days before fermentation in 100% stainless steel tanks at a mix of temperatures. This wine was then aged for nine months in 100% French oak, 69% puncheons (17% new) and 31% neutral barriques.
Nose: Forward bright red cherry, cranberry and red currant fruits mix with notes of smoked paprika, black tea and tobacco.
Palate: Medium bodied with a strong core of rhubarb, cranberry and strawberry fruit with dusty earth and subtle vanilla notes surrounded by bright acidity. Subtle, classy exuberance.