Pinot Gris
Napa Valley 2011
Vintage
The 2011 growing season proved to be a challenge in Napa Valley. A wet winter and spring extended with rainfall nto mid-June, delaying bloom and set. A long, cool growing season followed, which forced growers to open canopies to ensure sunlight and warmth. Harvest was further hampered by autumn rain storms, which encouraged an earlier-than-normal harvest. Overall, quality of fruit is high, and lower alcohols are expected
for the vintage.
Vineyards
The grapes for this wine were grown in the Nichelini Vineyard in the Chiles Valley region of Napa Valley. The region, with its clay-loam and shale soils, favors a longer growing season with its higher elevation and persistent morning fogs.
Vinification
After whole-cluster pressing, the Pinot Gris juice was fermented to dryness in stainless steel. About half the wine was moved to neutral one-and two-year-old French Oak barrels for 150 days, where the lees were stirred routinely to increase yeast contact and add richness. Prior to bottling, the wine received minimal filtration and fining to preserve the fresh fruit flavors.
Tasting Notes
This Pinot Gris is noted for its fresh fruit aromas, dominated by ripe peach, pear and nectarine notes. The minimal contact with oak provides some creamy textures that complement the wine’s bright acidity, making this an ideal food wine.
Technical Data:
• Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Gris
• Appellation: Napa Valley
• Alcohol: 12.5%
• TA: 0.62 g/100ml
• pH: 3.46
• Oak Aging: 50% of blend, 150 days
• Oak Cooperage: French Oak
• Bottling Date: July 6, 2012
• Production: 180 cases
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