2008 Pinot Noir Rosé

THe ViNEYARDS

We chose a block of Pommard grapes in the northeast section of the Van Duzer Estate as the source for our Pinot Noir Rosé because of the intensity of the fruit and floral characteristics, two especially desirable qualities in a Rosé wine. Grapes from the adjacent block of 114 Dijon clone contributed extra complexity. Here in the Van Duzer Corridor of the Willamette Valley, our micro-climate of warm days and cool nights accompanied by mild west winds favors the development of flavor while maintaining the ever-important acid structure of the fruit.

WineMAKING
 

A traditionally-made Rosé relies on the extraction of Pinot Noir flavors and rosy color during the brief time that the grape juice is in contact with the grape skins. We aim for a refreshing full-flavor style by processing only in stainless steel and releasing soon after bottling. The grape clusters are hand harvested and sorted, then de-stemmed and crushed directly into the press. The crushed fruit is allowed to soak in the press for eight hours, picking up color and flavor from the skins. Pressed off to a tank for cold-settling, the juice is racked on the following day and inoculated with a yeast known for enhancing aromas. It is allowed to cold ferment until dry, racked clean, cold stabilized and then bottled.

WINEMAKER’S NoTES

Clean edged aromas of cherry, strawberry and pomegranate-cranberry with a hint of ruby red grapefruit make a harmonious opening statement. The 2008 Pinot Noir Rosé features a complex mouth feel with flavors of red cherry, cranberry and persimmon. The fruit driven finish is broad and smooth after a crisp, dry entry. This bracing wine possesses the balance of fruit and structure to partner well with barbeque, smoked meats and fruit-based salads or perform solo as the perfect sipping wine for a hot summer night.

VINEYARD: 100% Van Duzer Estate
VINIFERIA: 60% Pommard clone, Block 20
40% Dijon 114 clone, Block 19
ALCOHOL: 13.1 %
TA: 0.84 g/100ml
pH: 3.17
RS: Dry, less than 0.02%