2017 Drake Estate Vineyard Brut Blanc de Noirs

HOLD
DRINK
2024-2034 OPTIMAL DRINKING WINDOW
Russian River Valley Drake Estate Vineyard
RELEASE PRICE $100 Current Release

Winemakers Notes

The beautiful color immediately captures your attention and lures in the senses. A nose of pure cherry showcases the Pinot Noir varietal traits while hints of stone fruit, […]

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Technical Notes

Alc. 12.5%
Technical Notes PDF

Winemakers Notes

The beautiful color immediately captures your attention and lures in the senses. A nose of pure cherry showcases the Pinot Noir varietal traits while hints of stone fruit, quince, and cardamom add complexity to the nose. Made in the traditional method, or Méthode Champenoise, and aged for an unprecedented 7 years en tirage, a subtle nuttiness and white chocolate element develops and offers intrigue. At only 2.5 g/L for the dosage, the tension on the palate is preserved while respecting the natural roundness of the Pinot Noir character. Red cherry, lime, and apple flavors give way to a dry finish of crushed minerals. The wine is delicious today but will improve with even a few years of age. Cheers!

Harvest Notes

It was an auspicious start to the 2017 growing season with steady rain followed by dry spells which allowed for the soil profile to fill up progressively. The waterworks kicked into high gear in January at which point over 20 inches of rain had accumulated. That’s nearly double the historical average. 2017 was epic in many respects and at one point the Russian River waters touched Westside Road and the winery was waterfront property! As the waters receded and the soil dried up, temperatures moderated, and bud break ensued by mid-March. Steady rain through the vegetative cycle was balanced with days of brilliant sunshine which helped to grow green, healthy plants. The weather was very fine in May for the flowering period and ideal for the fruit set. As the season progressed there were periods of heat that occurred with some regularity. With plenty of water in the soil profile, the plants did not stress too much and physiological maturity continued at an accelerated pace. Due to the diversity in our vineyard sources, there is normally a natural spread in the pick dates. However, in 2017 there was compression of the harvest and many of the vineyards were ready in a short period of time. The process was nearly complete by the time the intense Labor Day heat wave hit and, thankfully, had concluded before the devastating wildfires in October. Through a Herculean effort in the vineyards and at the winery we were able to pick the grapes at the optimal time and preserve the freshness and acidity of the vintage. The consequent wines show a refinement to the tannin structure which will allow for early consumption but will age gracefully with mid-term cellaring. Through and through, the 2017 is an excellent vintage.

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