Domaine Carneros Pinot Noir begins in the six different Estate Vineyards, which are green certified, and are located within four miles of the Château. Eleven different clones of Pinot Noir are grown and each one contributes its unique flavor profile and personality to make this compelling blend, a true mosaic of the Carneros terroir. After an early-morning harvest, while the grapes are still cool, the handpicked fruit is gently destemmed and cold soaked. Fermentation takes place in small, open-topped vats with punch-downs, resulting in heightened color and complex flavors. After pressing off, the finished wine went directly into French Oak barrels where it rested for ten months until bottling.
This lusciously juicy Pinot Noir is redolent with raspberry and black cherry aromas and flavors enhanced with hints of smoke and exotic spice. It is medium-bodied with bright acidity and a broad richness of even-tempered tannin that stretches into a long finish.