Primera 2021
94 Points - Wine Advocate
Vintage Notes
2021 was a long, cool growing season. The combination of variable weather and strong winds in the spring slowed development and created differing yields in the vineyards. The characteristics of the season allowed us to make picks in late September and early October of grapes that display an incredible balance of ripeness, acid, and concentration.
Winemaking
In 2021, almost a third of the wine comes from lots fermented with dried stems after a three-day cold soak. Fermentation took place primarily in stainless steel tanks, with a small portion fermented in new oak barrels. Eighty-seven percent of this wine was aged in 60-gallon French oak (25% new), with the remainder aged in egg-shaped oak barrels.
Nose: Forward aromas of wild strawberry, dark cherry, and raspberry with a strong floral component and notes of cocoa, pancetta, and toast.
Palate: Medium-full body with rich, layered, concentrated flavors of strawberry, cherry, and plum with a long floral, earthy finish.
“The 2021 Pinot Noir Primera takes several minutes in the glass to reveal red cherry, raspberry jam, mushroom, tobacco, wildflower and amaro aromas… impressively concentrated, perfumed fruit, a vibrant acidity and a long, ethereal finish.”~ Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate (94 Points)