This 100% Pinot Noir cuvée reflects the cool and windy microclimate of the Sonoma Coast AVA. The climate and terroir here provide ideal conditions for low yields (equating to more flavor intensity) and longer hangtimes (allowing Pinot Noir grapes to reach maturity while retaining their natural acidity and preserving the bright flavors of red cherries and raspberries). Schug ensures the elegant expression in this Pinot Noir by aging in large neutral oak casks, stainless steel, and older French oak barrels to keep new oak flavors to a minimum. Lively acidity on the finish makes it an ideal accompaniment to grilled fish and fowl or barbecued meats.
Bright and lifted red fruit with aromas of raspberries, crushed strawberries and forest floor. The palate is light-bodied with bright acidity and a slight spritz, displaying notes of red currants, cassia bark and sarsaparilla.
Allspice and sarsaparilla accents plum and candied apple. Brightly lit from within with a fine wash of acidity, and a fresh, juicy burst of watermelon, sweet soil, and cinnamon-cranberry.