2016 Manzana Vineyard Magnum

92 Points: Virginie Boone Wine Enthusiast - 12/31/2018

"The pale to medium ruby colored 2015 Pinot Noir Manzana Vineyard has an earthy nose of forest floor, fungi and truffles over a black cherries and black raspberries core plus a waft of mocha. Medium to full-bodied with plenty of black berry and earthy characters and a plush texture, it finishes long and fruity. 181 cases produced."

The 2016 vintage started out with an early bud break followed by a warm growing season. Just when we were about to start picking, we had a cool spell in late August. Thishelpedslow things down and spread out the harvest. With no threat of rain in sight, we hand harvested the grapes exactly when we wanted to in the cool evening hours of September 17th, 2016

The grapes for this Pinot Noir came exclusively from Manzana Vineyard, which is farmed by the renowned Dutton Family. The Duttons have been growing grapes in Sonoma County—specifically the Russian River Valley—for generations. Because they are known for their meticulous farming and consistent quality vintage after vintage, their fruit is highly prized. Manzana is located in Green Valley, a sub-appellation of the Russian River Valley known for its cool temperatures. For Pinot Noir, this unique climate results in deeper colors and intense aromatics. The best barrels from Manzana Vineyard were used to make this wine, with each specifically selected for its unique and ideal traits.

• composition:

  100% Pinot Noir

• alcohol: 14.40%
• cases made:

  19 Barrels
  464 Cases

• bottling date: 08/01/2017
• aging:

  Aged 10 months in French oak, 32% new

• fermentation:

  Gently desteemed into open-top fermenters; three day cold soak; cap management included pump-overs & punch-downs