Harvest
2018 was
arguably one of the top growing seasons on record in Sonoma County. Despite a
warm February, the 2018 growing season started cooler than the past few
vintages. A cool spring meant bloom lasted longer than usual, but fruit set was
consistent, and the ripening was even. We had a relatively mild summer with
plenty of the famous Russian River morning fog. These conditions allow our
Pinot Noir to mature gracefully and develop great flavors. We harvested at the
peak of ripeness.
Vineyards
We used two different Korbel Estate vineyards in the blend. The mainstay of the blend is from the Santa
Nella vineyard which is a steep south facing hillside across the river from the
winery. This had been the backbone of our Pinot Noir program and gives the blend
weight and a bit of earthy tannin. The
second vineyard is Olivet vineyard, located in the flats west of the winery.
This vineyard brings fruit and brightness. Together these vineyards create a
wine that speaks Russian River: cherry cola, plum and blueberry, sweet tannins
and a smooth finish.
Winemaking
Each
vineyard block is harvested and fermented separately. The fully ripe Pinot Noir
grapes are crushed into stainless steel fermentation tanks. The juice is cold
soaked for 48 hours, yeast is then added to start the fermentation. As the
fermentation progresses, the grape skins release their color and flavor into
the wine. To enhance this process, the juice is circulated in the tank two to
three times per day. The fermentation process typically takes 7 to 10 days. The
wine then undergoes malolactic fermentation to round and soften the palate.
After
fermentation and pressing, the young wine is aged in 60-gallon French and
European oak barrels for about 10 months. The barrel aging helps to moderate
the tannins and better integrate the flavors of the wine.
Food Pairing
Our
2018 Korbel Pinot Noir will pair very well with a wide variety of foods. If
serving with appetizers, we suggest you serve with a Brie or Taleggio platter. For
main course, pair with Grilled Pork Chops or Beef Bourguignon. Dark Chocolate Tuxedo
Strawberries for dessert to complete the pairing.
Wine Profile
Harvested: September 2018
Harvest Ripeness: 23.5brix
Varietal Composition: Pinot Noir
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Fermentation: On skins in SS tanks
Barrel Aging: French & European oak
Total Acidity: 6.4 g/l pH 3.44
Alcohol: 14.3% by volume
Residual Sugar: Dry
Production: 700 cases
