Sonoma-Cutrer today announced the introduction of its Vintage 2017 Vine Hill ‘Flanc De Coteau Bloc’ Pinot Noir as part of its Winemakers Release series.
Sonoma-Cutrer’s Vine Hill Vineyard in the Russian River Valley provided the fruit for this release, with grapes specifically selected from the highest elevation, hillside blocks. With more than a 400-ft. elevation change, each ridge, slope, and valley in the vineyard contributes to the grapes, the company says. Combined with a variety of soils, clones and rootstocks that limit excessive vine growth, the vineyard provided a variety of fruit.
Three specific winemaking techniques were used to craft this wine. First, a technique called submerged cap was used, which keeps the grape skins held beneath the surface of the fermented wine. Second, grapes were cold soaked and fermented in French oak barrels; and third, traditional fermented in small, open top, stainless fermenters. After fermentation, each of the individual components were barrel-aged in 100% French oak barrels made from wood sourced from the Gauthier family mill. After aging for 16 months, the final blend was assembled and bottled. The wine was then allowed to rest and evolve for an additional six months in the bottle prior to release.
“Extra care was taken in selecting the specific fruit, fermentation methods and French oak barrels to produce this exclusive, once in a lifetime Pinot Noir,” explains Sonoma-Cutrer Director of Winemaking, Mick Schroeter. “This 2017 vintage of our Winemakers Release highlights the artistry and innovation of our winemaking and Pinot Noir craftsmanship.”
The Winemakers Release is a series of limited-production wines offered periodically and consisting of expressions that showcase the craftsmanship and innovation of Sonoma-Cutrer, the company says. Sonoma-Cutrer’s V’17 Vine Hill ‘Flanc De Coteau Blocs’ Pinot Noir is hitting shelves now in select markets for a suggested retail price of $49.99 per 750-ml. bottle.
V’17 Vine Hill ‘Flanc De Coteau Bloc’ Pinot Noir has aromas of dark blackberry and black ripe plum fruit with juniper spice, cinnamon, cedar wood and earth notes, the company reports. This pinot noir offers oak integration and firm, polished tannins. The flavors in this wine showcase its savory tension and complexity that round out to fresh acidity with a juicy finish.
