2021 Legacy William H Stoller Pinot Noir

NOTES FROM THE WINEMAKER

An expressive wine with dynamic flavors and textures, the 2021 William Harvey Stoller opens with complex aromas of red fruits, dried violets and savory herbs on the nose. Earthy and powerful on the palate, flavors of fresh black raspberries, cured meat, and minerality evolve into a long, vivid finish. The tannins are firm and pleasing, suggesting enormous potential to age.

VINTAGE OVERVIEW

The 2021 growing season was warmer than average in the Willamette Valley, producing beautifully ripe fruit with vibrant flavors. A dry spring led to lingering rain showers during bloom, which reduced the yield in some blocks. Then, an abnormal heatwave spread across the valley, with temperatures reaching as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Fortunately, the fruit prospered as high temperatures occurred between bloom and véraison when berries were hard and less sensitive to damage. Temperatures tapered off prior to harvest, with warm days and cool nights, which allowed the fruit to ripen at an even and slower pace. Quick yet seemingly smooth, harvest started on August 21 with little to no breaks until we finished on September 26. The resulting wines are balanced with focused flavors, stunning fruit, gorgeous vibrancy, and incredible aging potential.