Michaud 2001 Pinot Noir (Library Release)

Vineyard Notes:
It is rare in the United States that limestone occurs in areas suitable for vineyards. Limestone is a key component in the minerally flavors of great Burgundies and it is because of the region’s dramatic geologic history that limestone occurs in today’s Gabilan mountains.

The Chalone Appellation sits adjacent to the San Andreas Fault, the tectonic meeting of the North American Plate and the Pacific Plate. The great Pacific Plate that is west of the fault line was once and for eons the bed of the ocean. Countless generations of sea life formed a marine sediment that eventually compacted and became limestone, only to be thrust above the surface of the ocean by the great force of the grinding plates. The limestone combined with granite from the North American plate to form the ideal soil type; well-drained decomposed granite and limestone with some clay.

Winemaker Notes:
In 2001, a ninth clonal selection was harvested in our vineyard, Dijon Selection 667. Cropped at about 1 ton per acre, these vines produced delicious fruit. The Dijon selections 113, 114, 115, 667 & 777 have added a new dimension and vivid clear fruit flavors to the complex, dark fruit, wild and spicy character of the historic clones grown in the appellation since 1946 & 1970-72.

Ripe red and black cherries, currants, and black raspberries are suggested by the wine’s aromas and flavors. The moderate tannins evolve into a pleasant suppleness after 30+ minutes or shortly after decanting (recommended if you are in a rush). Subtle wild herbs and spices complement the crushed rock, mineral-like terroir.

Pinot Noir is more unpredictable and capricious in its expression than any other grape. If you’re patient, this wine will reward you with its charm and complexity. Enjoy this wine now, in a few years or in 20 years. Decanting is helpful.

Food Pairing Notes:
Serve with grilled salmon, steak, lamb chops, duck, quail, guinea hen, etc. Include morels if you can.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	Chalone
Varietal Composition:	100% Pinot Noir
Harvest dates:	August 31 – September 4, 2001
Aging:	14 months
Oak:	50% New, 50% 1-3 Year Old French Oak
TA:	6.20 g/L
pH:	3.39
Sugar at Harvest:	24.1 degrees Brix
Alcohol:	14.1%
Bottling Date:	November 6, 2002
Optimum Consumption:	2003- 2010+