2012 Pinot Noir Reserve

We picked our delicate Pinot Noir grapes by hand at optimum ripeness in the cool, very early morning hours. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes were destemmed, but not crushed, into small fermentation bins and allowed to cold soak for three days, (cold soaks are used to help stabilize color and enhance flavor). The juice was then fermented in small lots in open top fermenters and punched down three times a day at the height of fermentation, then held on the skins for two weeks before pressing. The must was drained, pressed to stainless steel tanks and, after settling the heavy solids, the juice was racked clean to barrels for secondary fermentation and aging. Aged for 20 months in 100% French cooperage, the wine was bottled then laid down for an additional 18 months prior to release. Our goal in selecting the very best barrels was to attain an ideal balance of tannin, acidity and intense black fruit flavor that truly captures the beauty and purity of Pinot Noir.