2021 ZD Wines Pinot Noir, Carneros, USA

Tasting Notes
We are excited to release our 2021 Carneros Pinot Noir! After another growing season with very little rainfall and moderate weather throughout, the vines adapted quite well. While the crop was light in most vineyards, the clusters and berries were also small and packed with intense flavor and bright, natural acidity. This bottling also marks a return to our favorite mix of Pinot clones: Dijon 667 and 777, as well Pommard and a touch of 115. We have discovered some great, new organically certified vineyards in the esteemed Carneros appellation and we’re to welcome them for the first time in this blend.

Each individual vineyard lot was hand harvested separately at optimal maturity and gently destemmed with 30% of the berries left intact. Hand punch downs every six hours during the fermentation ensured a gentle extraction of color and tannin followed by 10 months of aging in 100% French Oak barrels.

With a beautiful medium-ruby color, this Pinot Noir exhibits aromas of raspberry, briary black cherry, and rhubarb mingled with hints of baking spice, clove, cedar, and toast. The palate is full and lush with notes of strawberry and pomegranate, and the subtle oak nuances integrate perfectly with the core of ripe fruit and perfectly balanced acidity. This wine is drinking wonderfully now and will age gracefully for many years to come.

Press
93 Points, Gold Medal
Los Angeles Int’l Wine Competition, 2023

Gold Medal
Monterery Int'l Wine Competition, 2023

Gold Medal
American Fine Wine Competition, 2023