Michaud 2003 Pinot Noir

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:
The Dijon selection 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. The vines have now reached a degree of maturity that allows for greater concentration and depth in the wines produced from them. Ripe red and black cherries, currants, and black raspberries are suggested by the wine’s aromas and flavors. The moderate tannins contribute to a pleasant suppleness. Subtle wild herbs and spices complement the crushed rock, mineral-like expression of the Chalone Apellation terroir. This wine will reward you with is 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, roast lamb, duck, quail, roasted chicken.

Technical Notes:

Appellation:	Chalone
Varietal Composition:	100% Pinot Noir
Harvest dates:	September 24-27, 2003
Aging:	20 months
Oak:	50% New, 50% 1-3 Year Old French Oak
TA:	6.4 g/L
pH:	3.47
Sugar at Harvest:	24.5 degrees Brix
Alcohol:	13.9%
Bottling Date:	June 20, 2005
Optimum Consumption:	2006- 2016+