The 2017 vintage came on the heels of historically low yields in 2016 and while clusters were a bit larger than normal, our rigorous fruit thinning paid dividends. The vintage shows great balance and nice restraint yet offers a more classical expression of varietal that should have some aging potential. The growing season started cool and transitioned into a moderately warm summer with minimal pressure. September and October followed with a nice stretch of weather with cool evenings. Yields were less than 3 tons/acre at our target of 1-2 clusters per shoot.

Grapes were picked for freshness, flavor & maturity and were then meticulously sorted in the field as well as on pre & post-sorting tables at the winery. Extended cold soak, primarily native fermentation, pump-overs, and gentle punch-downs. The wine was racked at 16 months off the lees, then blended. There were multiple lots of 100% whole cluster added in the final blend. The quality fruit is evidenced by the freshness, depth, and balance of this vintage.

The ensuing wines are beautiful expressions of Pinot noir with pretty, ripe fruit aromas, lively acidity, and roundness on the palate. The wines are easy to fawn over as they are approachable now, yet they should continue to build for the coming 3-5 years. Our terroir shines through with fresh ripe cherries, spice notes, and subtle forest underbrush notes.

Bright ruby red, bursts of ripe cherries, cranberry, and raspberries intertwining with a distinct meld of spice, dried flowers, and black tea. Nicely layered with sweet cherries and red plums while the fresh acidity plumps up a bright and expansive mid-palate. Medium-long finish. The tannins are beginning to integrate and soften, yet this wine has years. Full-bodied and deliciously seductive now; but one would be wise to bet on its future when the roundness gives way to increased nuance and expression of site. We suggest aging for a least a year to let the wine settle and develop in the bottle. Drink within 2-12 years.