Pinot Noir

2004 Pinot Noir
This Pinot Noir comes from a four-acre block of the Beckwith Vineyard, planted in the 1970s. Stewardship is our hallmark; this wine exists because we chose not to replant with a more prolific grape variety. Enjoy this modern wine rarity, Paso Robles Pinot Noir!

Harvest Date: September 7th and 8th
Harvest Brix: 24.5
Vineyard Source: Beckwith Vineyard
Yield: < 1 ton/acre
Alcohol: 15.5%
TA: 0.62 g/100mL
pH: 3.71

Winemaking
Hand harvested grapes.
A greater proportion of the fruit (50%) was whole-cluster fermented than in previous years, 50% fermented more traditionally in open-top bins with punch downs twice daily.
French oak aged for a shorter period (10 months) in 100% new, tight-grained Dargaud & Jaegle barrels from the forest of Troncais to support the modifications in wine style. These barrels give a sweet, toasty overlay without overwhelming the delicacy of the fruit.
Bottled unfiltered on August 19, 2005.

Production
134 cases of 750 ml.

Tasting Notes
A more Burgundian-style than the 2002 and 2003 releases, the 2004 is a lovely ruby color with flavors that are fruit-driven and well balanced. The nose is a complex mix of cherry fruit, Asian spice box and truffle-like aromas. The wine exhibits medium body with a soft finish.