2005 Alder Springs Mendocino Pinot Noir

The cool climate of the Alder Springs vineyard in the hills of Mendocino County consistently yields deep concentrated fruit with excellent levels of tannin and structure. The resulting wine is velvety textured, with rich, dark fruit and complex¬ity. The hard work and dedication shown by Stuart Bewley’s viticulture practices ensure the consistent quality of the wine. Spicy notes on the nose of our 2005 Alder Springs Pinot Noir continue through the palate, building from brown spices to almost black pepper, over a foundation of cherry and black fruit. As it opens up, the nose in particular gains even more spice and fruit, along with some subtle floral and earthy components. As we have done in the past, we let this wine age in barrel for 16 months, to allow the characteristic tannins of the site to soften, yielding a wine with richness and depth, fleshed out by velvety tannins and framed by good structure. As the fruit and lush mouth-feel continues, balanced acidity brings enough verve to the finish to refresh the palate. Should drink well over the next 3-5 years.