2010 The Reserve Pinot Noir

The Reserve is an exclusive 47 case selection of Pinot Noir representing our most intriguing wine in the cellar. The final blend represents countless hours of tasting wine from barrel. Only with such in-depth knowledge of our subject, were we able to select these 2 barrels of Pinot Noir.

Every block of Pinot Noir within our 30 acre vineyard is individually hand harvested at its peak of flavor maturity and intensity. Block by block, the fruit is fermented in small 1.5 ton lots and matured for over 18 months in French oak barrels.

Every vineyard block and clone/rootstock combination showcases something unique and special from the vineyard. After fermentation is complete, the wine is placed into a selection of barrels to mature. We source French oak barrels from several coopers. The wine takes a different path to maturity in each barrel, developing its own nuances.

We taste all of our barrels of wine many times throughout the year. We experience the evolution of flavors and aromas and remember the significant events in our vineyard. The excitement of an early bloom, the mystery of a very light fruit set, the discovery of color change at veraison, and the rapture of harvest. Tasting each barrel of wine provides us a snapshot in time. We experience the wine’s development.

As we taste through the cellar, we make mental notes on each barrel. By the time we begin blending trials, we each have a pretty intimate idea of our favorite barrels. Dena will usually lay claim to a few barrels, and Ernie knows to leave those for last. Ernie includes these barrel samples as well as his favorites in the blending trials. This wine is a 47 case blend from our two favorite barrels.

The Vintage: The 2010 growing season was another welcome cool climate vintage. The finished wines reflect the full aroma and flavor development of our picture perfect October weather. The season’s 1,722 degree days are represented in the lower alcohol levels for 2010. You can read the full vintage update and our harvest “After Action Report” on our website at this link: http://www.amalierobert.com/2010_julian_calendar.htm

Tasting Notes: Romance red with a velvet sash beckons you into the arena. Aromas of fresh grated cinnamon stick and cardamom are entwined with sweet, ripe Flathead cherries and strawberry jelly. While initially suave on the palate, you suddenly realize the Tango has begun. Pure elegance and finesse are submissive to whole cluster stem tannin textures and dominate acidity; and not gently like before. Azimuth to Zenith, all are aligned, the lingering afterglow reinforcing a timeless interpretation of Pinot Noir. Who doesn’t want that!?

Suggested Food Pairings: Seared duck breast served along side confit of duck leg with roasted sweet onions and sautéed wild mushrooms tossed in freshly made pappardelle pasta sprinkled with Hot Hungarian Paprika; SWAK (Served With A Kiss.)