1997 J Pinot Noir, Robert Thomas Vineyard

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Source
The 1997 J Pinot Noir was harvested on September 7, 1997 from selected parts of Robert Thomas Vineyard — our westernmost parcel in the Russian River Valley where the vines are nestled between the valley and hillside. Robert Thomas Vineyard is our coolest location, offering slow ripening and long hang time.

Processing
Selected grape clusters were hand-harvested, delivered cool to the winery and processed in our open-top fermenters. Our minimalist approach to making Pinot Noirs is designed to elevate a wine that reflects, in aroma and flavor profile, the location in which it was grown.

Ageing
The wine was drawn into 100 percent French oak barrels soon after it was pressed. The malolactic fermentation was completed in the barrels and the wine remained in barrels until November 1998. Only selected barrels made it to the final bottling in December 1998 when 270 cases were bottled. Further bottle ageing at our cellars is part of J's commitment to release only wines that are in balance and ready for enjoyment.

Tasting Notes
The Dijon clones used for the Robert Thomas create a distinctively Burgundian style Pinot Noir. Initial aromas are earthy with a subtle hint of green tea and dried herbs. Other aroma notes include blueberry, dried cranberries and a hint of oak. Flavors are of pie cherries, cola, blueberry, tea leaves, with delicate smoky oak notes.

The wine is light to medium-bodied with a clean finish. Winemaker, Oded Shakked's light hand and not — overly extracted style make the 1997 Robert Thomas Pinot Noir a perfect companion to food. We suggest grilled chicken and roasted duck. Don't limit your options; innovate! Cheers!

Harvest: September 7, 1997

Harvest Analysis: 23° Brix

Final Analysis: Alcohol 13.6% by volume

Bottling Date: December 10, 1998

270 cases produced