The Pinot Noir Blocks 4 and 5 are located along Redwood Creek, west of the town of Napa.  The elevation is between 200 and 220 feet above sea level.  The soil is thin loam on a solid rock base.  The climate is moderated by morning fog, and the surrounding hills protect these blocks from the afternoon maritime breeze.   The St. George roots were grafted with the Dijon 115 clone, a Joseph Swan field selection and UCD Clone 12.  The vines were planted between 1993 and 1995, spaced 7’ x 5’ and are cordon trained and spur pruned.   A six-foot, modified vertical trellis system supports the cordons and canopy.  Average production is approximately 2 tons per acre and harvest is usually between August 25 and September 1. 

In 2004, bud break in the Pinot Noir Blocks occurred on March 14.  The spring weather conditions were cool and damp with bloom complete by May 1.  Early summer temperatures were moderate with veraison complete by July 15.  Harvest was August 20 with a yield of 1.5 tons per acre.  Alcoholic fermentation was completed in one week using natural yeasts.  At dryness, the wine was pressed and put into barrels for malolactic fermentation.   Aging was 11 months in 100% French oak barrels, approximately 50% were new.

This wine has attractive, classic Pinot Noir aromas of baked cherry and spice. Flavors and aromas include orange peel, cassis, spice, tea and caramelized sugar.  The oak, while lending further layers of spice, is still soft and well integrated. The alcohol is 14.8%.

880 cases produced.