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This Pinot Noir is made entirely from the Calera clone. We crop the vines for low yields, somewhere in the 3 ton per acre range to really concentrate the flavors and allow the clusters to have plenty of air and light evenly distributed. We let the fruit for this wine hang just a bit longer, again, pushing for maximum flavor and ripeness. We open the rollers wide on our de-stemmer and seek a high percentage of whole berry fermentation. We do a gentle punch down 2 times per day and then rack into 70% new French oak barrels for 10 months of aging. This wine is very structured and will age gracefully. I recommend decanting this wine about an hour before serving. I like it paired with rich flavors like a lamb ragu with gnocchi or umami flavors like a wild mushroom polenta. ~ Michael Baldacci
Deeply concentrated with ripe dark fruits and a powerful and structured body.
Vintage: 2017
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Appellation: Los Carneros
Vineyard Designation: Honey B Vineyard
Bottling Date: February 28, 2020
Cases Produced: 52 cases (12 x 750ml)
Our Honey B Vineyard on Cuttings Wharf Road in the Los Carneros AVA is a 20 acre parcel planted to Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot and Gewürztraminer. We have owned the vineyard since 2008 and we love this cool climate region. Our Wente Chardonnay clone is the backbone of our white wine program while the Calera clone brings richness to our Pinots. Both the Merlot and Syrah are part of our Fraternity Red Wine Blend while the Gewürztraminer finds a home in a late harvest expression. We've also embarked on Blanc de Blanc style of sparkling wine made from the Chardonnay. The expansiveness of this region is extraordinary while the mild climate and low elevation provide consistency and predictability to our farming practices. We love the opportunity to stretch ourselves beyond the Cabernet Sauvignon wines that are the hallmark of our family's brand. Certified Napa Green and Fish Friendly Farming
