2016 Perli Vineyard Pinot Noir

Tasting notes:

There’s a thread that runs through the 2016 Cartograph Pinots: a quirky, wonderful energy that bubbles just below the surface. Perli has been our benchmark Pinot from Mendocino Ridge since 2009. This 2016 has evolved in the bottle to show fun contrasting aromas. The unlikely juxtaposition of sharp cranberry and lush blueberry is the first thing you notice with leather and a little blackberry hovering in the background. On the palate the wine is more savory than the nose might suggest. There is definitely plenty of bright cranberry and the dark fruit that defined this wine when it was young, but that has faded to the background and the earthy notes have intensified. Plentiful tight tannins define the finish and hint that this wine will age gracefully for many years. (Updated 12.27.22 - Alan)

Vineyard: Perli Vineyard

Clones: 667 and 777

Cases produced: 117 cases, fewer than 10 cases currently available

Recipe pairings:

• Vegetarian: Pasta with roasted vegetables, tomatoes and basil
• Meat: Sautéed pork chops with sweet potato, apple and mustard