2015 Chalone Vineyard Estate Pinot Noir, Chalone AVA
92 Points & Editors' Choice - Wine Enthusiast
Winemaker Notes
Our 2015 Estate Pinot Noir is composed of 100% estate vineyard fruit. The inviting aromas of ripe
cherry, blueberry and baking spices are well defined. The dynamic palate shows a beautiful balance
of bright raspberry and plum complemented by notes of root beer and nutmeg. A wet stone
minerality neatly ties up all these elements on the lingering finish.
Food Pairing Notes
This wine is a perfect match with
spice-rubbed beef tenderloin or mushroom risotto.
Composition
100% Pinot Noir
Wine Specs
Vintage
2015
Varietal
Pinot Noir
Appellation
Chalone AVA
Harvest Date
August 11 – September 2, 2015
Acid
6.1 g/L
pH
3.69
Aging
12 months of barrel aging, 30% new French oak barrels
Alcohol %
13.8
Wine Enthusiast
92
Production Notes
The 2015 vintage was early, light and of exceptional quality. The season kicked off with moderate
temperatures in spring leading into warm summer days. Cool evenings influenced by coastal breezes
optimized ripeness, and the lack of rainfall highlighted mineral flavors signature of the Chalone AVA.
We harvested the fruit from August 11 – September 2, 2015.
Vineyard Notes
The thin, limestone-rich soils of Chalone Vineyard produce low yields of grapes bursting with rich, intense
flavors and impeccable balance. Year after year, our Estate Pinot Noir exemplifies the impeccable structure
and flavor complexity imparted by old vines budded to heritage clones; and, the 2015 vintage is no different.
This Pinot Noir hails from the Vista and Reservoir blocks of our estate vineyards. The name of the Chalone
American Viticultural Area (AVA), like that of the winery, comes from the name of a tribe of Native
Americans who once inhabited this isolated area.