Pinot Noir Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc Chardonnay Sparkling Wines Order

1998 Pinot Noir Temperance Hill Vineyard Release Date: 5/29/00 Retail Price: $18.00 Availability: 434 cs. Production Notes Temperance Hill Vineyard is located in the hills formed by an ancient volcanic uplift ten miles northwest of Salem, Oregon. The Pinot noir grapes come from the eastern edge of the vineyard, which was planted in 1984 on thin weathered basalt at an average elevation of 720'. The grapes were fermented in a small tank after two days of cold maceration. The wine aged for 16 months in 41% new American oak barrels and was bottled without filtration. A small amount of sediment may accumulate during the aging process and is normal for wine produced in this manner. Crop Level: 1.6 tons/acre Harvest: 10/14/98 Bottled: February 2000 This Pinot noir complements grilled meat entrees - salmon, lamb chops, pork tenderloin, filet - and is drinkable at release or will benefit from aging up to 4 years. Winemaker Notes The 1998 Temperance Hill Pinot noir was the first of six Pinots to be bottled. With the highest altitude vineyard, it ripens later, has softer tannins, and often less complexity than the other sites. The up side is that Temperance Hill generally is more approachable in its youth with more forward fruit flavors. It rates high on my charm scale. Tasting Notes The wine is very dark ruby red with pretty red and black cherry, mint and dried citrus peel aromas. Flavors of cherry, raspberry and a hint of smoky bacon are accompanied by balanced acidity and toasy oak. The finish is soft and has moderate length. This wine always gains complexity after August, I am guilty of consistently underestimating its quality. Back to top of page