2001 J Pinot Noir, Robert Thomas Vineyard

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The Vineyard
The 2001 Robert Thomas vineyard designate Pinot Noir comes from an exclusive vineyard along the Russian River. This vineyard is one the last to ripen of all of our Pinot’s as it is the farthest west where the coastal influence of fog and cooler temperatures gives it more time to stay on the vine and develop a rich flavor profile..

Processing
Whole grape clusters were hand-harvested, destemmed, then moved into open top fermenters. The clones of Robert Thomas were kept separate through this process and remained separate until blending. After a three day cold soak, the must began it’s fermentation which was finished in about 10 days. The fermented juice (wine) along with the skins were then pressed and the clear wine moved into french oak barrels to go through malolactic fermentation.

Ageing
The wine is aged in 60-gallon French oak barrels that are selected from various areas of France. While in these barrels the second or malolactic fermentation was completed. A loose filtration process with no fining was employed before bottling.

Tasting Notes
The aroma explodes with violets and earth, moving to light smoke, warm spices and hints of dark cherry. This wine exhibits the depth of elegant layers that is the hallmark of great Pinot Noir; it is lush without being heavy. Just enough acidity is in the finish to make it match well with food. The wine ends with cherry, floral and earth notes wrapped in a slight nutmeg blanket.

Harvest: August 21 - 22, 2001

Final Analysis: Alcohol 13.7% by volume