Spring Release Highland Divide Pinot Noir
2018

Winemaker’s Notes

This vintage of Highland Divide Pinot Noir is as close as we’ve come to designate quality in a blended wine. The prime ingredients for our Estate, Finn and Ryan bottlings lend this Russian River blend a purity, intensity and richness that elevate it to “best-of-vintage” status.

In July 2018, the naturally abundant crop led us to make two successive fruit-thinning passes through the vines in order to harvest grapes with optimal levels of concentration and acidity. Our commitment to low yields and the highest quality are demonstrated in the wave upon wave of rich dark fruit that fan out to an extended complex finish.

The nose offers a lovely mix of dark fruit and savory notes: black raspberry, black cherry and bright pomegranate, with dried thyme, anise and peat moss adding detail. The wine’s flavors come at you directly—focused, mineral and pinpoint, dark and pure. Richness emerges as the layers unfold, yet the structure remains silky, poised and dynamic. The finish is lively and persistent with a sense of concentrated blackcurrant. 

While the wine is intended to be enjoyed over the next five to seven years, it will age beautifully for up to 15 years in a cool cellar.

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner