Black current and red raspberry burst out of the glass, followed closely behind by soft rose petal herbs taking shape from whole cluster inclusion in the fermentation process. Oak accents round out a complex bouquet of typical California Pinot aromas. The palate holds a crisp line of black fruit, with a chiseled structure expressive of both the Carneros climate and a cooler 2011 vintage. A definite food wine fit to pair with California’s best.

This year began with a wet winter and spring which continued into mid-June delaying bloom and disrupting fruit set on some vines.  In July, we were pleasantly rewarded with weeks of fantastic weather providing needed ripening time before harvest.