
2016 Cartograph Estate Pinot Noir
Tasting notes:
In 2016 we purchased a mature Pinot noir vineyard and this is the first wine from those vines under the Cartograph label. As a young wine it was bursting with fruit aromatics. These fruity notes have settled into the background and the primary aromatics are now earthy, dried leaves and fresh cut cedar. Just behind these autumn aromas are pretty floral notes of orange blossom and violets. That dark cherry from its youth is still hovering in the background. As much as I love the balance between earth and fruit components on the nose, the real story is the complexity that comes at you on the first sip. What was fruity becomes savory. What was sharp on the nose becomes supple and round on the palate. While it’s easily enjoyed without overthinking, this is a Pinot geek’s wine. Ripe cherry and blackberry blossom on the palate. Spend some time with this one to uncover all the little things going on behind the scenes, all the way through the long finish that shows mouth-coating tannins late. (Updated 2.20.22 - Alan)
Vineyard: Cartograph Estate
Clones: 115, 667, 777, Pommard
Cases produced: 213 cases
Recipe pairings:
- Vegetarian: Wild mushroom risotto
- Meat: Grilled pork chops with peaches and pole beans