This wine is terrifically complex with a layered nose of berry, tangerine, and spice box notes which jump from the glass. Hints of five-spice and hoisin add a depth and complexity that is beguiling. Fat and rich in the mouth, the wine fills the palate with fruit and savory elements and finishes with a tea-like sensation. Subtle acidity supports the broad mouthfeel and lets the grandeur of this offering unfold on the tongue.
THE VINEYARD
The Foss Vineyard sits above Eastside Road in the Middle Reach region of the Russian River Valley. With a fine, clay loam soil type and a temperate microclimate, this site is extremely well drained and therefore an excellent site for Pinot Noir. Planted to Pommard, Swan, and Mt. Eden, together they offer a rich and complex palette to draw from in blending this incredibly rich and complex wine.
HARVEST 2019
The 2019 growing season started with ample rainfall in the winter months and finished well above average. Wet soil and cool temperatures conspired to delay bud break nearly two weeks later than historical average. Moderate to slightly above average temperatures ensued and the vegetative cycle caught up. Flowering started under ideal conditions but a late May rain event delayed flowering for a week. This had some impact and created some shatter and smaller clusters. These smaller clusters are desirable because they are looser and the smaller the berry, the higher the tendency to yield concentrated and flavorful wines. The remainder of the growing season was largely uneventful. August was largely fog-free, so the nights were warmer and the days sunnier which tended to move photosynthesis and maturation along more quickly. The harvest schedule was mostly routine and rather leisurely with grapes arriving to the winery in pristine condition. The 2019 wines are impressive with excellent color, depth, and precision of site. The polish of the tannins and softer acid profiles will offer early appeal but can certainly hold on for years.
TECHNICAL NOTES
Barrel Description: 61% new, 39% 1 yr. Barrel Aged: 16 months
pH: 3.58
TA: 0.52g/100mL
Alc: 13.4%
