The 2007 Clone 115 Pinot Noir is unique in that it is made solely from the Pinot clone called “Dijon 115.” Clones are simply genetically distinct versions of the same grape, with different clones associated with different traits. While they are often blended for diversity, in this case the winemaker decided to bottle just the 115 on its own. This is a clone known for producing robust and intense flavors, and these characteristics are on display in a big way in this wine. Bright ruby in color, the nose bursts from the glass with plum, pomegranate and blueberry. Secondary notes of tar, espresso and earth are equally powerful. The palate is also dominated by dark berry fruit, with black pepper, earthy spice, and a strong streak of minerality. This is very full-bodied, rich and lush, with mouth-coating tannins, but good acidity keeps it fresh and lively through a complex finish that trails off with flavors of cranberry.
For fans of big, rich Pinot Noir, or people who have tried Pinot a few times and found it to be too light for their taste, this is going to be a big hit. California Pinot has skyrocketed in price recently, thanks to increased demand and the high cost of farming this difficult variety, so we are pleased to be able to offer a wine of this caliber for under $45. Pair this with intense, red-meat dishes that normally require Cabernet or Syrah, or serve it on its own, allowing the intense flavors and wonderful complexity to shine.
Vineyard Source: 100% Los Hermanas Vineyard (Formerly Ashley’s Vineyard) In Sta. Rita Hills
Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Barrel Aging: 16 Months In 60% New French Oak
Cooperage: T. Mercurey, Francois Frerer, Ermitage
Harvest Date: October 1st
Tons Per Acre: 1.6
Brix: 24.6
Alcohol: 14.5% Alcohol By Volume
P.H.: 3.52
T.A.: .65 G/100Ml
Production: 441-6 Pack Cases
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
91 Points
Shimmering ruby-purple hue. The nose is a walk through a damp Sonoma forest—mossy bark and wild earth—brightened by high-toned notes of cranberry sauce and blood orange. On the palate, it's generously long in the mouth, with good concentration. It's a masterclass in tension: intense, cherry and red current fruit meets dark spice and fine, sandy tannins.
96 Point Vintage
Entices with aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry, and cedar spice. Indicative of the cool vintage, the wine carries a freshness throughout. The palate offers a harmonious balance between bright red fruit, spice, and nicely woven tannins.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
97 Points
Rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with notes of baking spices, licorice, coffee, and chocolate that interlace seamlessly with complexity, creating a wine that is both structured and delightfully supple, achieving an ideal balance of tension and grace. Artfully composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 17% Cabernet Franc, resulting in harmonious depth and freshness.
92 Points
A powerful expression of Cabernet Sauvignon. On the nose, it's enticing and fragrant, bursting with fresh blueberries, blackberry tart, cedar, black olives, and hints of spicebox. Its palate provides big, round chewy tannins, sweet ripe black cherries, blackberry cordial, Bourbon-soaked maraschino cherries, maple roasted walnuts, and a touch of vanilla.
