COMPLETE TASTING NOTES
Two Alsatian Pinot Gris clones are planted on the North slope of the Chalk Hill Estate, our highest and coolest of the vineyard blocks, which faces to the north/northeast. Clone 146 provides delicate floral aromas and exotic fruit while clone 152 adds roundness and length. A temperate growing season, ending in a long autumn of dry, warm weather, coaxed the grapes on their slow march toward full maturity. Our estate style is of unmistakable quality — that of flavor and balance. Strict adherence to rigorous viticultural standards that include cluster thinning, leaf pulling to promote maturity and color, and several passes through the vineyard at harvest, ensures fruit of ideal ripeness.. After whole-cluster pressing, the entire vintage was allowed to progress through fermentation in neutral French oak barrels to coax out the maximum fruit expression. Weekly, then monthly batonage stirred in enriching texture and aromatic complexity. The wine offers up a perfumed bouquet of tangerine peel, honeysuckle and jasmine. Moderately weighty flavors of key lime and tropical vanilla combine for a rich and expansive mouthfeel, punctuated by the clean acid structure. Partner our 2004 Chalk Hill North Slope Pinot Gris with foie gras terrine or seared scallops with turnip purée and truffle butter.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
- Blend:
- 100% Pinot Gris (Clone 152 and Clone 146)
- Vineyard:
- North Slope
- Appellation:
- Chalk Hill
- Ageing:
- Ten Months - Sur Lies
- Fermentation:
- 100% in Barrel - with Batonnage
- Harvested:
- August 25-September 14, 2004
- Bottled:
- August 19, 2005
