The 2006 PFW Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is sourced from two great vineyards located within the Sonoma Coast appellation, Sonoma Stage Vineyard, and Dunah Vineyard. Heavy rains throughout the Winter and Spring in 2006 required intensive pruning in the vineyards to maintain low yields. Unusually hot August temperatures stimulated ripeness, while cool September temperatures allowed the grapes additional hang time to achieve optimal ripeness and complexity. At harvest, the various clone lots were separately hand-picked, hand-sorted, and separately fermented with Burgundy yeast strains. The clone lots were also separately barrel aged in French oak from the forests of Alliers, Troncais, Vosges and Argonne. After extended barrel aging for 26-28 months, the final blend was assembled in early 2009, and bottled 100% unfined and unfiltered.
On the nose this lovely pinot noir exhibits beautiful perfumed aromas of cherry, raspberry, cinnamon, vanilla, lavender, and black tea. The flavors on the palate are well delineated, with lush, bright cherry, raspberry, cinnamon, mocha, and vanilla notes, followed by anise, mineral, leather, and spice notes on the silky finish. This delicious pinot noir showcases classic varietal flavors, silky texture, and beautifully balanced flavors displayed with great finesse.