2021 "MEZZO PIANO" PINOT NOIR
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2021 "MEZZO PIANO" PINOT NOIR
Hailing from the northernmost vineyard in Los Carneros, Napa Valley, sits a small, hidden vineyard. Planted in 2005, this vineyard is terraced on steep hillsides with more rock than soil, limiting the water and nutrients the vines can draw upon. There are three distinct blocks, each situated at different elevations and slope orientations.
TASTING NOTES
The 2021 "Mezzo Piano" Pinot Noir is a softer and refreshing take on the classic Burgundian grape variety. Light garnet plum in color, this aromatic red leaps from the glass with notes of Maraschino cherry, toffee crumble, toasted marshmallow, & graham cracker. The palate is bright and uplifting with Bing and Black Cherry dominating. An unrestrained kaleidoscope of baking spices and dark caramel frames the experience and persists through the long finish.
WINEMAKING
Composition – 100% Pinot Noir | Clones 123 & 667
Vineyards – Kipper Family Vineyard | Los Carneros AVA, Napa Valley
Brix at Harvest – 23.2
Aging – 17 months in 75% New, Rare Saint Julien French Oak Barrels
Fermentation began after fruit was carefully destemmed and sorted, but not crushed. Whole-berry fermentation allowed for a gentler expression of fruit and terroir. After an exceptionally lengthy élevage of 17 months in new French oak, this Pinot Noir was bottled unfined and unfiltered, retaining its stylistic verve.
VINTAGE & VINEYARD
2021 was a warm and relatively dry vintage. Yields were slightly below average allowing for more concentrated and intense flavors to develop on the vine. Approaching harvest, only a couple small heat wave were experienced with little to no fruit desiccation. This allowed the natural acidity to be retained and prevented sugars from spiking unexpectedly. Overall the vintage will be remembered for it's classic quality but with modestly lower quantity. A good vintage for enjoying in its youth and with some time after proper cellaring.
Proprietor & Winemaker
