Brooding and mysterious, the 2017 vintage is a blockbuster of a wine. Dark fruited at the core, there is a tea and dried herb quality that adds layers […]
Read More| TA | 0.63g/100mL |
|---|---|
| pH | 3.50 |
| Alc. | 14.2% |
| Barrel Description | 65% new, 35% 1 yr. |
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| Barrel Aged | 16 months |
Brooding and mysterious, the 2017 vintage is a blockbuster of a wine. Dark fruited at the core, there is a tea and dried herb quality that adds layers to the aromatics. The heavily concentrated palate is a result of the struggle that the plants experience on top of the Sonoma Coast range. Berry flavors transition to elements of Russian Caravan tea and finish with a robust, but refined, tannin structure. This may be one of the finest Precious Mountain bottlings yet produced.
It was an auspicious start to the 2017 growing season with steady rain followed by dry spells which allowed for the soil profile to fill up progressively. The waterworks kicked into high gear in January at which point over 20 inches of rain had accumulated. That’s nearly double the historical average. 2017 was epic in many respects and at one point the Russian River waters touched Westside Road and the winery was waterfront property! As the waters receded and the soil dried up, temperatures moderated, and bud break ensued by mid-March. Steady rain through the vegetative cycle was balanced with days of brilliant sunshine which helped to grow green, healthy plants. The weather was very fine in May for the flowering period and ideal for the fruit set. As the season progressed there were periods of heat that occurred with some regularity. With plenty of water in the soil profile, the plants did not stress too much and physiological maturity continued at an accelerated pace. Due to the diversity in our vineyard sources, there is normally a natural spread in the pick dates. However, in 2017 there was compression of the harvest and many of the vineyards were ready in a short period of time. The process was nearly complete by the time the intense Labor Day heat wave hit and, thankfully, had concluded before the devastating wildfires in October. Through a Herculean effort in the vineyards and at the winery we were able to pick the grapes at the optimal time and preserve the freshness and acidity of the vintage. The consequent wines show a refinement to the tannin structure which will allow for early consumption but will age gracefully with mid-term cellaring. Through and through, the 2017 is an excellent vintage.
Next to the other 2017s in this range, the Pinot Noir Precious Mountain Vineyard comes across as quite shy, with more of a savory character and less overt fruit. Firm tannins dominate at this stage, and yet there is plenty of depth and complexity waiting to emerge. Readers will have to be patient, but there is plenty to look forward to. A.G.
Rich, featuring cherry and red currant flavors, backed by zesty acidity. Cocoa powder accents show midpalate, with a lively and well-spiced finish that reveals minerally nuances. Drink now through 2024. 291 cases made. — KM
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2018 Central Coast Pinot Noir