Fall Release Sonoma Stage Vineyard Eoin Pinot Noir
2010

Winemaker’s Notes

Sonoma Stage vineyard was one of our standout performers this vintage. The fruit ripened steadily, but quite late, just before the first fall rains came and we harvested some superb lots from the vineyard in the 12-13% alcohol range. Always a unique vineyard expression, this windy, exposed site produces wines that naturally emphasize the darker, herbal/grassy side of Pinot. The wine actually starts quite savory in the mouth then turns to fruit before finishing with great swirling coastal freshness and intensity. It’s very different than our RRV vineyard expressions and we really enjoy this contrast. It has a grand intensity of aroma and vine extract, but is always fresh and lively, never heavy and its expanding mid-palate is finely balanced by vigorous windswept coastal tannins. It’s really a great bottling this year and one that will age beautifully to full complexity over a ten year period.

Light green/yellow color. Intense grapefruit and lemon verbena aromas broaden to cantaloupe then baked apple with a trace of sea spray and hazelnut complexity. Ripe stone fruits dominate the palate entry with an edge of smoky flint then richer baked apple and subtle vanilla bean flavors. Highly focused and agile palate with great lingering mineral freshness and penetrating citrus acidity. An intriguing note of almond richness on the building finish. Serve at no cooler than 55 degrees. The wine’s appley, hazelnut core will gain even greater richness with three to five years in bottle.

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner