Dijon Clones is a blend of
Pinot Noir clones representing a collage of vineyard blocks. As with all of our
blocks of Pinot Noir, these vines are individually hand harvested at their peak
of flavor maturity and intensity. The fruit was fermented in small lots and
then matured in French oak barrels from a selection of coopers.
The 2012 Dijon Clones Pinot Noir is a
blend of 7 Dijon
clones sourced from 12 dry farmed blocks. The barrels of wine crafted from each
block are culminations of the soil, rootstock, clonal selections and our unique
microclimates.
Much like an individual instrument in a
symphony, each barrel contributes its own unique character to the final
composition. The individual clonal attributes are presented in the aroma and
bouquet. The flavors and textures combine on the palate to provide depth and
rich layers of Pinot Noir fruit that are distinctly Oregon.
As is the case with
all of our Pinot Noirs, this bottling is 100% Estate grown and hand harvested
fruit. The individual blocks were fermented with whole clusters and indigenous
yeast from the vineyard. In the cellar, we aged the individual lots in French
oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months. The blend is a reflection of our soils,
microclimates and stewardship of the land.
The Vintage: The 2012 vintage, like all Oregon vintages, is a story unto itself. The growing season was warm and dry, with no measurable precipitation from mid-June through mid-October. A collection of seemingly perfect days, followed by cool evenings, extended the ripening period through mid-October. A brief day of soaking rain occurred on Friday the 12th, and we began harvest that Sunday. You can read the full Harvest After Action Report (AAR) at
www.amalierobert.com/2012_julian_calendar.htm
Tasting Notes: Redacted red leads to a mélange of dark berries, baking cocoa, incense and tilled earth. The palate is silky, yet restrained, and offers a texture that reveals a harmonious blend of deep flavors within a framework of acidity and tannin. From the "Trundling Thunder" vintage where the tighter they are wound, the farther they will take you. Unfined and unfiltered.
Suggested Food Pairings: Braised pork shoulder with white beans, Sautéed Brussels sprouts with onion and duck bacon, and fresh bitter greens tossed in Balsamic vinaigrette.