2016 Three Vineyard Pinot Noir

WINEMAKER’S NOTES

From the first pour, this Three Vineyard blend seems to continuously evolve keeping you intrigued start to finish. Bold yet bright with introductions of lush pie cherries and black tea evolving into blackberries and spice. The palate structure has a full presence that shows weight yet is delicate with silky tannins and crisp acid. A Pinot Noir that is drinkable now or can be laid down for years.

VINTAGE OVERVIEW 

This is the year of Earliest Ever. The winter was warm, budbreak was early and 2016 never looked back—bloom, veraison and harvest, all early records. Harvest began in August and was done before October. Although early, the growing season wasn’t as hot as the prior three, but still the same new warm norm. Fruit is fully ripe but not overripe, moderate alcohols, good enough acids and intense, easily extracted, dense wines, from 15% smaller berry sizes and yields. Potentially an excellent-to-classic vintage.

A Chehalem Holiday Library Selection

91 points – Wine Advocate
91 points – James Suckling
91 points, Editor’s Choice – Wine Enthusiast
90 points – Wine Spectator
90 points – Vinous