2004 J Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

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The Vineyards
J’s 2004 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is an elegant composition of wines made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes sourced from our Estate Vineyards as well as from selected growers in the Russian River Valley Appellation.

Processing
Our grapes are picked at night or in the cool morning hours to preserve freshness. The fruit is then carefully hand-sorted before de-stemming into a variety of open-top and closed-top fermenters. The must is given 3 days of cold soaking before fermentation is allowed to begin. Malolactic fermentation occurred in both oak tanks and French oak barrels. Our process allows us to craft a wine that is balanced, exhibiting layered complexity of flavors and aromas.

Ageing
Malolactic fermentation occurred in oak tanks and French oak barrels. The wine aged for 11 months in French oak barrels, 30% of which were new French oak. A loose filtration process with no fining was employed before bottling.

Tasting Notes
The 2004 vintage exhibits the full potential of our vineyards and the unique terroir of our region. The growing season in 2004 was relatively long and warm, with low yields, concentrating fruit flavors in the berries. As you pour the wine, Bing cherry and plum aromas burst forth. Hints of blackberry, violets, wild fennel, spicy cinnamon, and creamy vanilla round out the bouquet. The finish is full, long and silky with coffee, smoked bacon, warm spice and brown sugar notes.

Harvest: August 17 - October 1st,  2004

Final Analysis: Alcohol 14.1% by volume

Bottling Date: January 2006

Cases Produced: 20,000