The 10th vintage, the 2012 Valerie’s Vineyard Pinot Noir continues where each previous vintage left off. Valerie’s One Acre Carneros vineyard has come of age and we think that vintage to vintage this one is another winner. The winemaking and attention to detail has never been better.
The 2012 extols a rich velvety mouth-feel and well balanced fruit, oak and tannins. The cherry/plum flavors blend with traditional Burgundian nuances such as cola and tea. It is liked fresh baked cherry pie, that Valerie baked!
The French oak program of new and two-year old French oak from numerous makers has created a unique flavor profile and aging regimen. The wine lives no less than 18 months in the oak. With stellar winemaking by Jeff McBride in place at our new home at Benziger Family Winery and vineyard practices learned from Phil Coturri, the terroir of this one-acre vineyard and the consistency of the wine have taken hold.