1999 J Pinot Gris, Russian River Valley

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The Vineyards
J Pinot Gris is the result of the magnificent climate in the Russian River Valley. This bottling is a blend of two clones of Pinot Gris, some from our own Cooper Vineyard right next door to the J Winery and some from Saralee's Vineyard, owned by Rich and Saralee Kunde.

Processing
Whole grape clusters were hand-harvested then pressed gently in J's Coquard Press, which minimizes the extraction of harsh components from the skins and seeds. Thirty percent of the juice was fermented in French oak barrels and was allowed to go through malolactic fermentation and a subsequent aging period (6 months). Seventy percent fermented at cool temperature in stainless steel tanks in order to preserve the fruit character of the grape.

Tasting Notes
The aromatics of the wine are dominated by vibrant fruit and floral notes; applesauce, cinnamon, tangerine, honeysuckle and orange blossom. A dusting of vanilla and butterscotch is the contribution of the barrel-fermented portion of the wine. A full, layered body of flavors immediately followed by a long grape aftertaste marks the palate sensations. Flavors of honeydew melon, fresh apricots, white peaches, fresh green grapes, and spicy grapefruit intrigue the palate and finish with a hint of sweetness that was designed to balance the natural acidity of the wine. While we believe that this wine pairs well with many types of cuisine, we highly recommend slightly spicy Pacific-rim dishes as a perfect accompaniment to the 1999 J Pinot Gris.

Harvest:
September 8, 1999 (Cooper Vineyard)
September 24, 1999 (Saralee Vineyard)

60% (Estate) Paul Cooper Vineyard
40% Saralee Kunde Vineyard

Harvest Analysis: 22.9° Brix

Final Analysis: Alcohol 12.6% by volume

Bottling Date: May 4, 2000