La Frenz 2018 Desperation Hill Pinot Noir 750ml

Planted in 2008, Desperation Hill is our Pinot Noir designated vineyard named by Niva after driving the very steep slope from the top to the bottom. Five clones of Pinot Noir - 115, 667, 777, 828 and Pommard - were specifically selected by Jeff and imported from Dijon, France.No other grape varietal reflects soil like Pinot Noir does. For this reason each clone was planted in all three of the soil types found on this site. The sandy loam produces elevated red fruits and fine tannins while the heavy clay produces dense dark fruit with great, firm tannin structure from the same clones.In addition to the optimal soils, aspect and slope, the vineyard has large diurnal temperature changes (warm days and cool nights) during the critical ripening period, making this the quintessential site for this variety.

This wine truly expresses the delicate beauty that is Pinot Noir.  It shows an incredibly opulent palate with a persistent finish.  Layers of aromas and flavors give this wine its complexity and  richness. Aromas of dark cherries and plums mingle  beautifully with warming notes of dried black olives, wild  strawberries, West Coast forest floor and all spice. This Pinot  has a lasting impression of cigar box and cocoa powder. Whet  your appetite by pairing our Pinot Noir with wild boar pate or  quail with a red wine jus.  This Pinot Noir was crafted with immediate enjoyment in mind  though it will continue to develop up to 5+ years from release.

--Winemaker