Vineyards
100% estate grown Dundee Hills Pinot Noir, picked September 19, 22, and 26-28, 2003. 40% “old” vines (26-31 years old) and 60% from “young vines”.

Fermentation
Two-days of pre-fermentation maceration followed by an eight-day fermentation in one-ton and three-ton open top fermenters, punched down three times a day. After fermentation was complete, the fermenters were sealed and left for a 26-day post-fermentation maceration. The peak temperature during fermentation was 85 degrees farenheit.

Aging
Aged in French oak barrels for 16 months. Barrels were selected from eight different cooperages, with 62% being new and 38% being once-used.

Production
199 cases were bottled in March 2005 with an alcohol of 14.5%.

Winemaker Notes
Intense and bright with aromas and flavors of black cherry, blackberry and cassis. The distinctive Sokol Blosser earth and truffle characteristics are just beginning to show. Smooth, silky, polished tannins.

Food Pairings
Wild salmon, Ahi tuna, wild game, duck, filet mignon, pork tenderloin, rack of lamb.