2003 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley / Allen Vineyard Hillside Blocks

GRAPE SOURCE
Allen Vineyard, located on Westside Road, was planted in the 1970’s by the Rochioli family. The Hillside Blocks (Pommard clone) are adjacent to the Rochioli Vineyards, in one of the finest growing regions in the state. This is one of the oldest plantings of pinot noir in the Russian River Valley and one of the most desirable fruit sources for premium pinot noir producers.

WINEMAKING
Gary has the privilege of purchasing pinot noir fruit from several blocks within the Allen and Rochioli Vineyards, which provides several bottling options. This particular vineyard designate bottling was produced from the Allen Hillside Blocks, located on an east facing slope. The clone, the meticulous farming, the location, the climate and the soil are the key factors that make the wines produced from this vineyard (and the Rochioli Vineyard) so exceptional. Careful processing and handling of this fruit from vineyard to bottling provides us with a wine of great extraction, remarkable stature and huge expressions of fruit. Enjoyable now, but begs for several years of careful cellaring. Purchase now, as this small production of 171 cases will sell out quickly.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Aromas of black cherry and blackberry fruit, with hints of violet, leather and smoke. Brimming with ripe, concentrated fruit on the palate; with an impeccable balance of youthful tannins and bright acidity. Several years of careful cellaring will mature and refine the nature of this wine. Try with Tournadoes of Beef wrapped in bacon.

Winemaker: Gary Farrell
Alcohol: 14.0%
Case Production: 171
Acid/pH: 0.69/3.30
Released: November 2005
Appellation: Russian River Valley

PAST VINTAGES
2002 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley, Allen Vineyard Hillside Blocks