2018 Chalone Vineyard Estate Reserve Pinot Noir, Chalone AVA
Winemaker Notes
The 2018 Reserve embodies everything you’d desire from a Pinot Noir. Dark chocolate, blackberry,
wild mushroom and a hint of clove are seamlessly integrated from nose through palate. 10 months in
75% new French oak imparted a full mouthfeel and lovely texture to the wine.
Composition
100% Pinot Noir
Wine Specs
Vintage
2018
Varietal
Pinot Noir
Appellation
Chalone AVA
Acid
6.2 g/L
pH
3.69
Aging
10 months in French Oak, 75% new
Fermentation
0.3 g/L
Alcohol %
13.8
Production Notes
The 2018 vintage was highlighted by its moderate growing season and average rainfall, resulting in
grapes with extra hang time. Cooperative weather during the flowering stage increased fruit yields and
created crisp refreshing wines with wonderfully ripe flavors.
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 Grown Reserve Pinot Noir
exemplifies the impeccable structure and flavor complexity imparted by old vines budded to heritage
clones; and, the 2018 vintage is no different. This Pinot Noir hails from the MacWood and Upper
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.
