Frei Brothers, Russian Rivers 2007 Pinot Noir 750ml

The 2006 growing season began with a very wet winter that lasted through bloom, followed by mild weather up to mid-July. The second part of July saw very warm temperatures, with Coastal regions logging a record three weeks straight of 90 degree-plus days. By August the cooling coastal fog rolled back in, helping slow grape maturity to a more normal pace. The ripening period of August through September was ideal, with moderate temperatures and plenty of sun to gently ripen the fruit. Harvest began in mid-September and was completed in October. Overall, the 2006 vintage was one of the best in many years, with sound, ripe fruit and very few defects in the crop.

At Frei Brothers Winery, we craft our wines in a gentle, traditional style enhanced through modern technology that makes fruit the focus and showcases the best that each varietal and appellation have to offer. Our Pinot Noir grapes were picked in the cool morning, then de-stemmed, but not crushed to retain a significant portion of whole berries during fermentation. After a few days of cold soak, the grapes were allowed to warm and then begin fermentation. Fermentation temperatures were monitored closely to achieve optimum extraction of color, aroma, and flavor resulting in a rich, smooth wine that maintains its earthy characteristics and true Pinot character. Fermentation proceeded with several different yeast strains to give a breadth and depth of aromas and flavors. 100% of the wine was aged in oak barrels for approximately 24 1/2 months. The result: a classically styled, well-balanced Pinot Noir.

This wine has a rich mouth feel and is delicately balanced with sweet vanilla oak notes and tannins that are well structured on the palate.