Grape Culture
2023 Roberts Road Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
Roberts Road Vineyard - Sonoma Coast, Sonoma
Roberts Road Vineyard is nestled in the Petaluma Gap subregion of the Sonoma Coast. The cool climate and rocky soils at the base of Sonoma Mountain create the perfect conditions to produce elegant yet richly fruited Pinot Noir. The 2023 is our inaugural vintage for Grape Culture and the first Pinot Noir produced for this brand, showcasing our teams skills that were honed producing the Typicite Pinot Noirs, continuing to showcase single vineyard wines from iconic growers. It is a true testament to the diversity in skills from our winemaking team.
Profile
The palate mirrors the aromatic complexity, delivering a vibrant and layered expression of Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Bright red fruit flavors of cherry, raspberry, and red plum are at the forefront, displaying a juicy and energetic fruit core. Savory and earthy notes of forest floor, dried herbs, and a subtle hint of spice emerge on the mid-palate, adding complexity and grounding the fruit. The 30% whole cluster inclusion contributes a subtle textural element and a savory nuance that enhances the wine's overall complexity. Oak influence is seamlessly integrated, providing a subtle framework of spice and vanilla, complementing the fruit and savory elements. A vibrant acidity is a defining feature, providing exceptional balance, lift, and a mouthwatering freshness that is characteristic of Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and the Petaluma Gap.
Appearance: Medium ruby core, radiating outwards to a vibrant ruby-garnet rim with a slight translucence. The color is bright and inviting, typical of Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, hinting at elegance and freshness. The wine exhibits excellent clarity and light-medium viscosity, with graceful tears that suggest a lighter to medium-bodied wine with refined structure.
Aroma: The nose is immediately captivating and complex, showcasing the nuanced aromatics of Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and the influence of whole cluster fermentation. Fragrant red fruit aromas of ripe cherry, red raspberry, and cranberry are prominent, interwoven with savory and earthy notes that speak to the Roberts Road terroir. Expect to find hints of forest floor, damp earth, and a touch of dried rose petal, adding complexity and depth. The 30% whole cluster inclusion contributes a subtle stemmy spice and a delicate floral lift, enhancing the aromatic intrigue and adding a layer of savory complexity. Subtle oak influence from the new French barrels is beautifully integrated, lending delicate notes of vanilla bean and a hint of sandalwood, framing the fruit and terroir without dominating. The aroma is layered, elegant, and distinctly Pinot Noir, promising a wine of finesse and complexity.
Winemaker notes
Handpicked at night for early processing. 70% destemmed, 30% whole cluster prior to cold soak.
Barrel fermented in 40% new French Oak and 60% once used French Oak at 55 degrees. Malolactic fermentation in barrel.
This 2023 Roberts Road Pinot Noir is a beautifully crafted and expressive example of Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, showcasing the elegance and complexity achievable in the Petaluma Gap. It is a wine of nuance and finesse, delivering a harmonious interplay of bright red fruit, savory earth, subtle spice, and a delicate floral lift, enhanced by the judicious use of whole cluster fermentation and well-integrated oak. The wine is beautifully balanced, with vibrant acidity, silky tannins, and an overall sense of refinement and energy. It represents a terroir-driven and skillfully crafted Pinot Noir, highlighting the potential of Roberts Road Vineyard and the dedication to quality winemaking. This is a sophisticated and expressive Pinot Noir, perfect for enjoying now and over the medium-term, showcasing the distinctive character of this iconic Sonoma Coast vineyard.
Wine specs
- Vintage 2023
- Varietal Pinot Noir (100%)
- Aging Aged 11 months on the lees, 40% new French Oak and 60% once used French Oak
- Serving Temp 55F
- Winemaker Collin Cranor & Craig Ploof
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