2003 Andreen-Gale Cuvèe Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes
Deep ruby color. Dark stone fruit aromas and flavors of black cherry, plum and cassis are followed by hints of leather, mineral and white pepper. Soft tannins on the palate are balanced well with the acidity. Enjoy through 2007.
Vineyards
Fruit sourced from 5 estate vineyards in the coolest regions of the Sonoma Coast appellation, including Camp Meeting Ridge, Frances Thompson and Sea View Ridge Vineyards.
Harvest
Early September 2003
Winemaking
All fruit rigorously hand sorted and fully destemmed with no crushing. Pre-fermentation "cold soak" 4-5 days depending on lot. Full native yeast primary fermentation. Punchdown frequency depending on tannin structure of the given clone and the dynamics of fermentation. Total skin contact ranged from 16-22 days depending on extraction and balance. All ferments gently basket pressed and put to barrel on full fermentation lees for ML. Minimal racking with only one assemblage (retaining "light lees") in early Spring allowing the blend to "marry" in barrel prior to bottling.
Cooperage and Aging
100% French oak; 40% new barrels. Total time in barrel: 16 months.
Bottling
January 2005; 3014 cases produced.
Final bottling technical information
- pH: 3.55
- TA: 0.61 g/100mL
- 14.2 % alcohol
Release Date:
Fall, 2005