2003 Trinchero Family Pinot Noir

VINEYARD INFORMATION

Our South Napa estate vineyard in the rolling hillsides east of the San Pablo Bay is the source for our 2003 Pinot Noir. This 100-acre marine influenced property is subject to the cooling breezes and fog similar to the Carneros region which lies just to the west. This microclimate is considered to be ideal for the Burgundian varieties Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Approximately 40 acres have been planted to an assortment of different Pinot Noir clones-a total of ten separate blocks which are individually picked and vinified.

WINEMAKING

After harvest, the juice was fermented in stainless steel at temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees F. To enhance color and flavor extraction, the drain-and-return method (draining the tank of juice and then recirculation it over the fallen cap of skins and seeds) was utilized during the 14-day maceration period. 100% of the wine underwent a secondary, malolactic fermentation. After aging for 10 months in primarily French oak barrels, the final blend was minimally filtered and bottles.

WINEMAKER NOTES

This luscious Pinot Noir balances generous ripe black cherry and mocha aromas with cedar, spice and vanilla. Sleek and supple on the palate, the wine is brimming with bright bing cherry and spice with a hint of mint.

HARVEST DETAILS

Appellation: Napa Valley Date: September 19-22, 2003 Brix: 27.49 T.A.: 0.69 P.H.: 3.53

WINE INFORMATION

Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Barrel Aging: 10% New, 90% Used
Alcohol: 13.5%
Total Acidity: 0.53
Residual Sugar: Dry
Cases: 11,300
Release Date: July 2004