2016 Umino Pinot Noir Russian River Valley-Spell Estate

by Spell Estate Wines, Tastemakers in Residence

Spell Estate Wines is proud to offer their latest releases for 2018. See Pinot Description, Tasting Notes and Vinification details below. Then...just enjoy it!

The Vineyard

The Umino Vineyard is owned and farmed by Dave Umino, a fifth generation Japanese American from a Central Valley farming family.  After a career as a forensic metallurgist, the vineyards replaced an old apple orchard in 1995.  Planted to Pinot Noir Dijon clones 777, 667, 115 and 459 it is located southwest of Sebastopol at the top of Blucher Valley in what is unofficially referred to as the Sebastopol Hills of the Russian River Valley AVA.  Cold maritime air funnels through the hills to the moderate ripening of the fruit which produces wines of exceptional depth, concentration, and character.  

Tasting Notes

A real show stopper. Inky purple color introduces this impressive wine.  Intense aromas of roasted grains, ripe summer blackberries, vanilla crème, and violets fill the bowl.  Flavors of ripe blackberries and blackberries are highlighted by hints of roasted coffee and chocolate.  The finish possesses youthful, silky tannins that dance gracefully with blue fruit and umami flavors, lengthened with balanced acidity.  Extremely pleasing now, but like all of the Spell single vineyard wines; designed to age.  Drink now or over the next 10 years.

Vinification

Harvest Dates: 9/12/16 and 9/16/16    
Barrel Breakdown: 33% new oak, 33% once used and 33% older. 100% French oak.
Bottled: August 22, 2017
Cases Produced: 49-Released April 1, 2018