2004 Sea View Ridge Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes
Intense aromas of black cherry, violet, and red fruits are at the core of this wine. The terroir of this rugged seaside vineyard is evident; unfolding in the glass with distinct layers of leather and anise. In the mouth flavors of raspberry, black cherry, and subtle herbal notes are present along with soft tannins and crisp acidity. The finish is textured and delicate with remarkable balance. Cellar for 1 - 5 years. Decant if you wish.
Vineyards
This is the first release from our now 7-year-old vines at Sea View Ridge, our vineyard adjacent to Frances Thompson Vineyard. The vines have wood selections from DRC, Dijon 777, 828, Swan and Flowers selection. Cooled by fingers of coastal summer fog, often lasting into late morning, extends the growing season and allows for slow ripening and development of intense flavor, color and character possible by the Pinot Noir grape. This combination produces a wine that is as unique and wonderful as the vineyard itself.
Harvest
Early September 2004
Winemaking
Fruit was rigorously hand sorted and fully destemmed with no crushing. Moderate cold soaks (4-5 days), warm fermentations (85-90° F), and minimal punch downs (twice a day or less) were done this year in order to adapt to what nature gave us. Total skin contact ranged from 11-18 days with all fermentations being carefully basket pressed and put to barrel on full fermentation lees for ML. Racking was minimal with only one assemblage being done in the spring to allow the blend to "marry" in barrel. Mostly native yeast and ML with only small lots conducted using cultured burgundy isolates.
Cooperage and Aging
40% new barrels; 100% French Oak
Total time in barrel: 16 months
Bottling
January 2006; 248 cases produced.
Final bottling technical information
- pH: 3.6
- TA: 0.60 g/100 ml
- Alcohol: 13.9%
Release Date
Spring 2006