Savory notes of oak are complemented by initial notes of sweet cherry, raspberry, and roasted plum, which give way to rustic tannins that provide the wine with a supple texture
Vinification
The grapes were hand-picked and hand-sorted in the cool of the morning before being gently de-stemmed with a portion of the fruit side aside for whole cluster fermentation. The wine is cold soaked for three to five days before being inoculated with select yeast strains. During fermentation in open-top tanks, the cap is manipulated with pump-overs or punch downs up to two times a day depending on what the fruit is showing. Post-fermentation, free-run wine was settled for a minimum of two days before racking to new and used French oak barrels.
Vintage Notes
The 2019 growing season returned to the quintessential Oregon season, characterized by precipitation throughout the year. From a wet winter to late rains in June and July. Phenological activities were similar to those of 2018 but with more moderate temperatures throughout the growing season resulting in slower sugar accumulation. These cooler temperatures and properly thinned fruit kept disease pressure at bay and allowed for flavour development into October.
Region Notes
Running 120 miles North to South from Portland to Eugene, Oregons Willamette Valley AVA is in the Northwest corner of the state. The region is known for producing unique wines that are able to find a balance between New World and Old World expression. Boasting a Mediterranean climate with maritime influence and diverse soil types, it is no surprise that the Willamette Valley is now recognized as one of the premier Pinot Noir growing regions in the world. The fruit for this wine was sourced from eight vineyards spread across four sub-appellations of the Willamette Valley.