2017 WALT Brown Ranch Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir
Critic Review
"Well-framed, with juicy richness to the dark currant, plum and raspberry flavors, flanked by loamy and underbrush accents. The minerally finish lingers with slate, spice and dark chocolate details. "
Vibrant ruby in color, Brown Ranch Pinot Noir has layered aromatics of Chinese 5-spice, crushed violets, and sassafras. Effusive on the palate, the flavors of spiced strawberry preserves mingle with the earthiness, accompanying hints of firm acidity and subtle tannins. Well-integrated oak brings a tension and energy to this vintage.
Violets
Sassafras
Spiced Strawberry
Oak
The Brown Ranch vineyard sits on a hillside within the Napa Carneros "banana belt" a specific micro-climate where the morning fog burns off earlier, warming the vineyard for a longer period of time than other sites in the appellation.
| Bottle Size | 750mL |
|---|---|
| Varietal Composition | 100% Pinot Noir |
| Barrel Aging | 10 Months in 45% New French Oak (François Freres) |
| Appellation | Carneros, Napa Valley |
| Vineyard | Brown Ranch |
| Vintage Notes | The 2017 growing season began with significant rainfall, replenishing soils and reservoirs. A summer of gradual warmth indicated a textbook growing season until unpredictable spells of extreme heat throughout September created challenges for many vineyards. This slightly reduced yields, but great quality fruit. Cooling marine air arrived just in time to bring our vineyards to ideal harvesting conditions resulting in concentrated, rich, and dense wines. |
Mile 362, Brown Ranch, Carneros, Napa Valley
