VINEYARDS:
The majority of the grapes for the 2020 Complicated Pinot Noir were sourced from the acclaimed Herbert Ranch in Monterey County. This certified sustainable vineyard was planted in 1997 and pushes into the coastal Santa Lucia Mountains on the west side of the Salinas River Valley. Located approximately half-way through the Monterey County AVA, about 50 miles south of the northern end of the County, this site is sheltered from the traditionally strong Salinas Valley afternoon winds by a canyon, thus creating warmer temperatures in comparison to surrounding areas.
GROWING SEASON:
The 2020 Monterey County growing season started with mild weather and normal timing for bud break. Dry weather and minimal rainfall characterized the second half of the growing season. We harvested fruit for the Complicated Pinot Noir in October 2020.
WINEMAKING:
After being picked in the cool, early morning hours, the Pinot Noir grapes underwent a cold soak for 24 hours before being fermented with select yeast strains to enhance vineyard character. Each lot gets a tailored pump over schedule selected to enhance oak character and desired extraction levels. Once fermentation is complete, the highest quality lots are blended and aged to ensure the best aromatic and structural components work in harmony.
TASTING NOTES:
A beautiful crimson red color, the 2020 Complicated Pinot Noir intrigues with old world elegance. Aromas of cinnamon, plum, lavender, and ripe strawberry show up front. The palate is balanced and light in body. A smooth, soft finish makes this a great, food friendly wine.
- COMPOSITION:
- 99% Pinot Noir
- 1% Syrah
- AGING: 78% new French oak, 22% American Oak
- ALCOHOL: 13.8%
- T.A.: 0.58 g/100mL
- PH: 3.56