2017 The Barrel Climber - 12 bottles found in cellar

Pinot Noir

SONOMA COASTsonoma county

ALLOCATION LIST: $58.50
RETAIL: $65.00

ALLOCATION LIST ONLY BOTTLING

Tasting Notes

While the past several Barrel Climber Pinots have been a showcase for the more delicate fruit from the Freestone AVA, 2017 is sourced largely from our dramatically-fruited Petaluma Gap sources. Compared to our Permanent Collection lineup it skews more towards Sascha Marie vs Small Town in terms of overall size and character.

The structured, muscular black fruit from Roberts Road and earthy/creamy Grand Vent comprise two thirds of the wine with Michael Valentine (Freestone must still make an appearance!) playing a vital supporting role by adding lift and energy.

The inspiration? These were some of our favorite barrels this vintage and when combined during blending trials turned out to be a stunning combination. A little extra time in the cellar before bottling only brought them more closely together, integrating the structure seamlessly.

Akin to some of our other offerings this year, we pulled from both standard sized, older barrels along with a newer puncheon, as well as a bit of whole cluster fermentation.

Sadly, we were able to produce only 44 cases of this beauty (and zero magnums) so extremely limited.

DRINKING WINDOWS

Prime drinking: 2020 through 2026
Graceful ageability: 2027+

VINEYARDS

33% Roberts Road / 33% Grand Vent / 33% Michael Valentine

CLONES

50% 667 / 18% Pommard / 16% Swan / 16% 777

STATS

pH: 3.57|  TA: 6.5 g/L  |  Alcohol: 14.1%
Bottling: August 2, 2019    |  Release: Fall 2019
Cases Produced: 44

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