2018 Signal Ridge Pinot Noir

Blend: 100% Pinot Noir Swan, Pommard, 2A

Soil/Vineyard: Planted in 1999, the Signal Ridge vineyard is located at an elevation of 2,642 feet on top of Cold Mountain, in the center of the Mendocino Ridge AVA. The extreme altitude, exposure to sun and cold, and thin soils composed of fractured sandstone, mudstone and marine sediment all contribute to a low-vigor environment for growing ultra-high quality Pinot Noir fruit that is intense, distinctive and defined by its terroir.

Tasting Notes: Nose: complex aromas of slate, cherry, white pepper with a faint savory character in the background Palate: fresh flavors of Bing cherry, black tea; firm acidity provides balance and an intriguing tension that enhances the long, spicy finish.

Vinification Process: The 2018 season at Signal Ridge, from budbreak to harvest, was prolonged, which allowed for very gradual ripening of a relatively small crop of small-berried clusters. We picked during the cold early hours of September 16 th , destemmed at 70% and co-fermented with 30% whole-cluster fruit. Our gentle treatment, extended maceration (21 days on skins) and 16 months ageing in French oak barrels (30% new) resulted in this balanced, nuanced wine.

Maturation Process: 16 months ageing in French oak barrels (30% new)

Alcohol: 13.1%

Formats: 750ml, 6 bottles per case

Private Client $103.46/bottle Investment of $620.76 per case

Licensee: $92.19/bottle Investment of $553.14 per case

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