2007 Pinot Noir Pinnacles Ranches Monterey
Estancia relies on the benefits of boutique-style winemaking techniques including
whole-berry fermentation, gentle punch downs and basket pressing for our estate
grown Pinot Noir. The Monterey based winery uses only native yeasts to increase
aromatics and gentle gravity flow systems to minimize aggressive tannins and
bitterness. This hand-crafted approach results in Pinot Noir with soft, luscious aromas
and flavor and rich, deep color.
The grapes for our 2007 Pinnacles Ranches Pinot Noir are harvested primarily from
our vineyards on Monterey County’s Gabilan Mountains with the balance coming
from our Santa Lucia Highlands Vineyard. Cooled by ocean breezes from Monterey
Bay and aided by well-drained sandy soils, Monterey is one of California’s ideal
growing regions for Pinot Noir.
2007 was a superb Pinot Noir vintage. Above average rainfall in both late winter and
early spring coupled with an extended harvest allowed the fruit to ripen on the vine
at its own pace; the way nature intended.
Our vineyards are planted to eleven different Pinot Noir clones; predominately Dijon
and Pommard clones.
Winemaker Scott Kelley
Appearance Deep garnet with crimson hues
Aroma Notes of dark berries, black
cherry and caramel accent the
allspice, rose petals and soft
hints of vanilla.
Flavor Ripe blueberry, black cherry
and plum balanced by rich
creamy vanilla leading to a
smooth lingering finish.
Appellation Monterey
Oak Aging 10 months in French and
Hungarian oak, 25% new
Total Acidity 5.8 g/L
pH 3.65
Alcohol 13.9%
Release Date July 2008