Negociant 2013 Pinot Noir

Winemakers Bob Pepi & Jeff Lenamon who enjoy a good bottle of Pinot Noir put this label together. The grapes for Negociant come from a wonderful vineyard in Anderson Valley which I have long thought of as one of the best areas in California for making top Pinot Noirs. The grapes were harvested on Septbember 28, 2011 and after fermentation, the wine spent 10 months in French Oak (30% new). The name Negociant alludes to the long, successful search and discovery of a few great vineyards that has finally allowed us to make a Pinot of which we can be truly proud.

Alcohol: 13.8%

91 POINTS - "A great rich pinot with a nod to Burgundy. Light to medium body yet rich in flavor and texture. With red flowers and bing cherry on the nose the flavors deliver ripe red cherries and plum with slight notes of bramble and river rock. The acid is bright and balanced. Pair with roasted chicken with a morel mushroom, tarragon cream sauce." - Steve Kleinfeld

Subtle aromas of black cherries, earthy-mushroom characters and hints of orange blossoms are evidenced in this intense, complex nose. The palate is elegant and balanced with wonderful integration of flavors from entry through the long pleasing finish.