2003 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley / Jack Hill Vineyard
 |
| Grand Crew members, please log in to purchase this wine. |
Jack Hill Vineyard, owned by Patrick Welch and Ken Blenis, is located near the town of Occidental, previously known more for its counter culture in the 1960s and Italian dining landmarks. This community has long been a haven for many seeking a more intimate connection to earth and its land and thus the artisan growers have arrived. This tiny community, within the Russian River Valley appellation, often provides some of the longest, coolest growing conditions so ideal for pinot noir.
WINEMAKING
Each year Gary seeks out new exciting vineyards within the Russian River Valley. His never ending quest to obtain the best fruit available lead to Jack Hill, where he saw tremendous potential for quality. These two- and three-acre plots often yield less than a hundred cases of wine… leaving us dreaming for more. After this fruit was hand-sorted it was allowed to cold soak prior to fermentation. Our yeast of choice was Assmanshausen, which provides color and structural stability, as well as aromatic enhancement of fruit and spice. This vineyard designate is a first and we find it to be wonderfully bold, yet elegantly balanced and delightfully aromatic.
WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Intriguing aromas of anise, currant, black tea, green peppercorns, and dried cherries. Clean bright fruit flavors of wild raspberry, cranberry, and black cherry with undertones of smoky cedar and vanilla. Approachable now, this full bodied, well structured wine deserves several more years of bottle aging. Enjoy with grilled salmon or pork roast with green peppercorn sauce.
Winemaker: Gary Farrell
Alcohol: 14.0%
Case Production: 101
Acid/pH: 0.70/3.39
Released: November 2005
Appellation: Russian River Valley