Fall Release Ryan Pinot Noir
2008

Winemaker’s Notes

The most obviously Californian of our 2008 Pinot releases, the 2008 Ryan makes no apologies for its powerful ripe fruit dominated style. A true product of its growing season, it will find favor with those who prize fruit concentration and upfront drinkability over the greater nuance and subtlety found in our estate and aidan bottlings. The non-irrigated Widdoes Vineyard endured a torrid time in the harvest heat wave requiring us to pick more than two weeks earlier than any previous vintage. Despite this, the flavors are fully mature and the vineyard’s signature underbrushy complexity is fully evident – a testament to the site’s fine pedigree. The 1.4 acre high density Abbott Vineyard, with its narrow spaced 4-ft rows, was largely unaffected by the heat, maintaining excellent fruit integrity and most importantly elevated acid levels, so it could bring freshness and structure to this bottling. This new Ryan vintage reminds me most notably of our 2003 effort, which enjoyed huge critical success and continues to add layers of nuance and complexity in bottle that I would anticipate this 2008 to emulate.

Medium dark ruby red; explosive fruit aromas of mixed wild berries and damson with elevated floral and potpourri notes, underbrush and sweet truffle. Forward rich berry fruit with kirsch and plum and side notes of bergamot and licorice. Ripe, opulent and lots of Californian power. Youthful tannin and vibrant acidity pick up and extend the finish to maintain balance and freshness. Drink between 2011 and 2016.

Andy Smith Viticulturist, Winemaker & Partner