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About this wine:
This was a year for low yields in the vineyards. During the last week of August, these low yields
combined with a heat spike to give a little extra push to fast-ripening Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
By the beginning of September, harvest was in full swing. And in mid-September, most of the
early-ripening varieties had been picked with ripe flavors and robust sugars. Low yields across the
board contributed to intense flavors in both white and red grapes, leaving vintners pleased with
overall results.
Cellar Notes:
Our Russian River Pinot noir is made from grapes grown in two distinct vineyards, Bacigalupi and
Dunah. The former is located in the warmer Middle Reach of the valley, while the latter is located
in the coldest corner of the appellation - the Sebastopol Hills. After hand sorting through every
grape cluster, the grapes are destemmed and gently punched down in open-top stainless steel tanks
during fermentation. As with our Chardonnay, we use a blend of native and non-native yeasts in
different lots. After completion of the primary fermentation, we barrel down the free-run and press
wine separately, all into French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation occurs naturally. The wines
then age for a year prior to bottling without filtration.
Tasting Notes:
Peter Paul Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2008. A blend of two fine Russian River vineyards,
this elegantly styled Pinot Noir offers mounds of classic cherry notes up front. They are followed
by more subtle hints of plum, toast and a touch of sage. A judicious use of oak blends well with
the modest, refined tannins and acidity that give excellent structure.
Technical Data:
Oak Treatment: 100 Percent French Oak
Cases Produced: 565
Appellation: Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
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