After the movie “Sideways” created a Pinot Noir “sensation”, planted acreage in California began rising at a steady rate. Surprisingly for this historically temperamental variety, often called by insiders the “heartache grape”, some very good wines are appearing at attractive prices as a result. With this young, fresh Lodi Pinot Noir we were careful to avoid a pitfall all too often seen today. That is, too much dilution with other varieties to “stretch” the Pinot Noir with unrelated varieties like Petite Sirah and Syrah. This confuses and ultimately defeats the stunningly delicate character of Pinot Noir which is more like a ballerina than a sumo wrestler. This wine offers up attractive aromas of red pie cherry, strawberry and plums. Flavors include the above plus red raspberry. On the palate this wine is smooth, soft yet with an agreeable touch of fruit tannin. The finish is decidedly fruity with mild tannins giving structure and length. This Pinot Noir is fresh and appealing as a (slightly) chillable light red. Enjoy it over the next two years with salmon, BBQ chicken and Mexican food.

~ DANIEL GEHRS Founder/Winemaker