Winter Release Flax Estate Pinot Noir
2021

Winemaker’s Notes

The 2021 Flax Estate Pinot is the most ageable of our pinots from this epic vintage as befits the rocky hillside soils in which the vines are planted. Iron-rich, clay soils derived from decomposed volcanic rock give the wine a level of concentration and structure that coastal sandy soils cannot match. In the cellar we need to balance the desire to extract the richness of the fruit while respecting the depth of structure the grapes offer - it’s a case of less-is-more when fermenting Flax, and a delicate touch is required. What results is a wine of obvious depth and concentration with incredible deep intensity, supported by both vibrant acidity and broad tannin. The wine’s lilting red mineral scents seem to rise out of the soil itself.

Soaring aromatic complexity – red minerals, sandalwood and Asian spice, rose petal and thyme, red cherry and cassis. The palate is immediately deep and broad with licorice, dark cherry and lavender flavors that resonate throughout. The tannins, while bold, are fully absorbed by the wine’s succulent black cherry fruit core. The wine finishes layered and juicy with vibrant lift and a lingering note of tangy blood orange. Drink between 2024 and 2035.

Andy Smith