2022 Sea Slopes Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes
Possessing shades ranging from garnet to ruby, the 2022 is a captivating coastal expression of Pinot Noir. Aromas of spiced plum, rhubarb, and red cherry mingle with savory notes of black tea and baking spices to form an enticing bouquet. It is bright and lively on the palate with flavors of juicy red cherry, macerated strawberry, and plum. The wine finishes with fresh acidity and soft, approachable tannins that give added complexity to the noticeable texture from aging in 100% French oak barrels.
Wine Specs
- Aging:
- 11 months in 20% new and 80% neutral French oak
- Bottling Date:
- July 2023
- Cases:
- 950
Vineyard Notes
The challenging 2022 growing season ultimately produced outstanding wines. A warmer than usual winter season brought early budbreak in mid-February followed by average spring temperatures leading to early vine growth. Unfortunately, rain during flowering reduced the crop. The warm, sunny days of summer above the Pacific coast provided ample time for fruit flavor development, while the chilly, ocean winds maintained fresh acidity. Harvest began on August 19th and yields were down considerably. This memorable vintage produced excellent fruit quality, with small, flavorful berries that possess exceptional concentration and complexity.
Production Notes
The grapes for this Pinot Noir were picked during the cool early morning hours. After sorting, the fruit was cold soaked for several days. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks with some punch down maceration to achieve balanced extraction of flavor, color and aromatic compounds. After fermentation, the wine was transferred to barrel. 80% neutral and 20% new French oak was used for the aging of this wine. The time in barrel allowed the wine to seamlessly integrate the natural acidity, rich flavors and soft tannins into a beautiful, perfumed Pinot Noir.
Winemaker Notes
“From the cold, foggy weather to the steep, rugged terrain and marine influences, Sea Slopes explores the hillsides of the Sonoma Coast to craft the best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir possible. Sea Slopes Pinot Noir has a vibrant purity of fruit and is a texturally layered complex expression of coastal Pinot Noir”