Harvest
The 2009
Korbel Natural was made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes grown
in the Russian River Valley, in western Sonoma County.
Approximately two-thirds of the grapes used were grown in our own
estate vineyards.
After the
frost challenged 2008 harvest, we were ready for a "normal" year;
and we got it! The 2009 growing season started off with a
mild spring, with very little frost, and transitioned into a warm
and pleasant summer. The grapes matured well and
evenly. The harvest was very smooth, with a steady
progression from one vineyard to the next.
Winemaker
Notes
The 2009
vintage is one of our favorites in recent memory, the cuvee wines
from the Russian River Valley have a brightness and generosity
which is hard to resist. The 2009 crop size was modest,
probably as a result of lingering effects from the frosts of
2008.
In 2009, the
Russian River Valley Chardonnay cuvee wines have a crisp apple and
citrus character which is very attractive. These Chardonnay
cuvee wines add a nice bright note to the blend. The 2009
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir cuvees, which are the heart of
Korbel Natural, have a particularly generous red cherry and
raspberry fruit character and a great depth of flavor. The
blend of the two varieties results in a delicate, yet accessible,
fruit forward style that Korbel is known for.
Winemaking
We do
everything we possibly can to preserve the integrity of the fruit
used for Korbel Natural Champagne. This includes delicate whole
cluster pressing, cool juice settling and cool fermentation in
stainless steel tanks. After fermentation we minimize processing
and unnecessary movement of the cuvee base wines. The classic
Methode Champenoise process begins relatively early in springtime,
helping to preserve the fruit structure of the cuvee. Finally, the
dosage level is kept to a minimum, allowing the crisp fruit
character of Korbel Natural Champagne to fully develop.
Food
Pairing
Korbel
Natural's crispness and balanced acidity make it a great champagne
to serve as an aperitif, with lighter fish dishes or grilled
prawns. Natural also pairs well with fresh fruit, especially citrus
or apples.
Wine
Profile
Harvested: August / September 2009
Sugar
Level: 19.6 Brix
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Fermentation: 100% SS
Composition: 65% Pinot Noir,
35%
Chardonnay
Acid/pH: 8.0g/l, 3.18
Alcohol: 12.0
Dosage:
0.75%
Production: 43,000 cases
©2013
F. Korbel & Bros., Guerneville, Sonoma County, CA. Producers of fine California
méthode champenoise champagnes for 130 years. KORBEL is a registered trademark.