2005 Camp Meeting Ridge Pinot Noir
download PDFTasting Notes
Red currant, raspberry, and Italian plum aromas with spice notes of cardamom are accentuated by perfumed orange rind, white pepper and cola. Flavors are of cassis, ripe cherry, and vanilla with a silky texture. Showing firm, balanced acidity and a long round finish. Enjoy now or cellar for 3-5 years for more complexities.
Vineyards
The vines from the oldest Flowers site, Camp Meeting Ridge, have produced another astounding vintage. Yields in 2005 were .8 tons per acre, focusing flavors on the palate. The Calera and Swan Selection comprise the core of this blend along with the distinguishing spice from the Dijon 115 and 777 vines.
Harvest
September 30, 2005
Winemaking
All fruit rigorously hand sorted and fully destemmed with no crushing. Pre-fermentation "cold soak" 4-5 days depending on lot. Full native yeast primary fermentation. Punchdown frequency depending on tannin structure of the given clone and the dynamics of fermentation. Total skin contact ranged from 16-20 days depending on extraction and balance. All ferments gently basket pressed and put to barrel on full fermentation lees for ML. Minimal racking with only one assemblage (retaining "light lees") in early Spring allowing the blend to "marry" in barrel prior to bottling.
Cooperage and Aging
100% French Oak; 40% new.
Total time in barrel: 15 months.
Bottling
January 2007
Final bottling technical information
- pH: 3.59
- TA: 0.59 g/100 ml
- Alcohol: 13.8%
Release Date
Spring 2007