NEW! 2023 Charlie Clay, Russian River Valley
Pinot Noir
In Stock
Wine Specs
Vintage
2023
Varietal
Pinot Noir
Appellation
Russian River Valley
Vineyard Designation
Calegari, Dutton, Palmer
Composition
100% Pinot Noir
Production
257 cases
Alcohol %
14.28
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
Initially shy on the nose, with aeration this sophisticated Pinot
Noir wine reveals intricately woven aromas of black cherry
flesh, exotic Darjeeling tea leaf, roasted coffee and toasted
vanilla bean shavings. The entry is dominated by Fall ripened
pomegranate seed and Alpine strawberry. These flavors are
complemented by a mid-palate juiciness of sweet loam, black
tea leaf and sassafras. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, this Pinot
will drink gracefully over the next 5-8 years and beyond.
Vineyard Notes
The weather in 2023 transported us back to the much cooler
growing seasons of the late 1990s and early 2000s. So instead of
harvesting in August, we were delayed more than five weeks, to
October, providing more time for the fruit to achieve enhanced
color and tannin development.
The resulting wines exude perfect freshness, incredible color,
exceptional structure and an intensity of detail that will
continue to reward with aging. In fact, we believe this vintage
will be noted for its longevity as well as its exquisite beauty.
Winemaker Notes
“It all started on a trip to Burgundy in December of 2005. Chef
Charlie Palmer and I were traveling with some friends to the
Hospice du Beaune, one of the most famous wine auctions in the
world. The now legendary 2005 vintage had just been put into
barrels, and we were fortunate enough to taste what can only be
described as perfection in a glass. Inspired, Charlie decided that he
wanted to make Pinot Noir. Though we had just finished planting
a beautiful vineyard for Charlie on his estate property, the fruit
would not be ready for at least 3 more years. It was time to call in
some favors. After much begging, we were able to get our hands on
some of the greatest Pinot Noir growing in Russian River Valley,
and Charlie Clay was born.”
– Clay Mauritson