Our Winemaker Cuvée is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar. We only make it in years that we feel we have the wine to create one and. A blend of Dundee Hills and Ribbon Ridge grapes, this wine has dense berry flavors with a hint of spice and licorice, supple texture and well balanced, elegant tannins.
The 2021 vintage is 80% Dundee Hills: 60% Pommard clone Pinot Noir from Nysa Vineyard and 20% 777 clone Pinot Noir from Balanza Vineyard. The balance is 20% Wadenswil clone Pinot Noir from Stewart Vineyard in Ribbon Ridge. It was fermented with native yeasts and about 50% whole clusters. (123 cases produced)
“The 2021 Pinot Noir Winemaker Cuvee is gently spicy with a nuanced blend of cinnamon stick and clove offset by earthy underbrush. It’s more lifted and energetic than anticipated, with zesty acidity that propels its dark red and blue fruits across the palate with ease. The 2021 finishes with tension and medium length, remaining only gently tannic as hints of licorice fade.” Eric Guido, Vinous, May 2024, 91pts
“This wine is made with the five best barrels in the cellar. Fruit meets meat on the wine’s nose, with aromas of boysenberries, blackcap raspberries and pan-seared steak. Blackberries and dark chocolate flavors are accented by sprigs of rosemary. The wine’s lively acidity is breathtaking.” Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast 91pts (Sept 2023)