2016 Chalk Hill Mt. Eden Clone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.60, 280 cases, $60. Proprietor is William P. Foley II. Grown, produced and bottled by Chalk Hill Estate Winery, Healdsburg. The Chalk Hill Estate located in the northeastern hills of the Russian River Valley is a bit warm for growing Pinot Noir, but the winery’s Trenton Road Vineyard, located a few miles west is better situated. The vineyard’s 45 acres are planted to Mt. Eden and Pommard clones and Swan selections of Pinot Noir. Average harvest Brix 24.7º. Aged 10 months with monthly lees stirring for 4 months in French oak barrels, 67% new. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of dark berry fruits, toast and cigar box lead to a mid weight plus array of very ripe blackberry and black currant flavors accented with notes of smoke and toast. The high alcohol propels the wine’s lush, velvety structure. The firm tannin structure supports the richly fruited core. The wine lacks some vibrancy and the finish is very modest. The impression is a wine from a warm site with some resemblance to a Syrah. Score: 87. Reviewed December 3, 2017

Winery: Chalk Hill Estate Vineyard & Winery
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