The stylistic vision is pure Pinot Noir fruit with a soft juicy mouthfeel, balanced oak and soft, sweet ripe tannins. The methodology includes attention to detail from vineyard to bottle. Picked at peak ripeness, the fruit was gently destemmed, with approximately 60% of the berries remaining intact for intra-berry fermentation (which adds fruitiness). Prior to fermentation, the must underwent a 4 day pre-fermentation cold soak providing improved fruitiness and mouthfeel. On the fourth day, the must was inoculated with indigenous yeast. After 8-12 days of fermentation in small fermenters (punched down by hand), the must was pressed out with about 1% residual sugar and allowed to settle in the tank overnight. The new wine was barreled with light, fluffy lees where it finished primary fermentation and underwent malolactic fermentation.

Aromas of cherry, pie spice, nuts and plum are complimented by just a hint of brown sugar sweetness on the nose. A sweet entry with flavors of tart red cherry, raspberry, orange peel, black pepper and dark chocolate. A lively, spicy sip with mouthfilling body, lively acid and balanced, round tannins. The finish is long, juicy, and just a little spicy. Appealing now but will further reward those who cellar this wine. Drink now through 2016.