2020 Blanc de Noirs
2020 Blanc de Noirs
Tasting notes:
Complex and spicy, with notes of blood orange preserves, bloomed nutmeg and dried apricots. The palate is structured but creamy, with hints of dried stone fruits, roasted nuts and citrus jam. I would prefer both of these sparkling wines on the warmer end of the spectrum, in the 45-50 range to experience the texture and full range of flavors.
A “Méthode Champenoise” sparkling wine made from five clones (777, 667, 114, 115 and Pommard) ) of Pinot Noir from the Solaksen Vineyard. Harvested at night during the third week of August to maintain maximum freshness. Hand sorted and whole cluster pressed to tank where we settled for 48 hours. The juice was then transferred to stainless steel barrels where it was aged for 4 months prior to starting its second fermentation. Disgorged with zero dosage. Only 48 cases produced.
The Vintage:
In 2020 we saw normal budbreak and moderate early season growing conditions and overall was a warm to hot vintage. The season was marred by wildfires and potential smoke taint issues depending on the location of your vineyard sources in relation to the fires. Despite the fires the overall conditions brought phenomenal growing conditions, with some of the highest phenolic material I’ve seen in my career. The wines are plush, with enough structure to age and whites like Sauvignon Blanc are absolutely stunning. The fall unfortunately brought several freeze events during the third and fourth week of October that ended the season for the entire state.
Tech Information:
48 cases produced - $60 release, May 2025
Blend: 100% Pinot Noir
Aging: 4 months in stainless steel.
Vineyards: Solaksen Vineyard
AVA: Royal Slope
Alcohol: 12.5%
