2011 Floodgate Vineyard Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes:

2011 may have been a cool growing season, but the Floodgate team’s impeccable farming practices in this perfect cool-climate growing location never fails to deliver everything you want from the Russian River Valley. It is pretty ruby with the slightest brick-colored rim. The dark cherry blueberry aromatics that dominated this wine when it was younger have faded and a rich caramel has emerged supported by cola and rose petal. Earthy notes of dried fall leaves and baking spices bring lighter notes as well. On the palate it is extremely well integrated offering flavors of a rich cherry pie. The wine is round but still dances across your tongue. The finish is certainly more lively than you might expect from a 10-year old wine. (Updated 4.16.21 - Alan)

Vineyard: Floodgate Vineyard (now called Starscape Vineyard)

Clones: 667, 777, Pommard

Cases produced: 220 cases 

Recipe pairings:

• Seafood: Grilled salmon with sweet onions and red bell pepper
• Meat: Pork tenderloin with balsamic cranberry sauce