About the Curly Flat Western Pinot Noir 2023

As with our inaugural 2018 Western Pinot Noir, our 2023 has been sourced from within our coolest viticultural sites planted in 1997 & 1998.  Over the years these blocks have increasingly formed the fragrant peak of Curly Flat Pinot Noir.  The reasons for this begin with its easterly aspect, situated on a rising slope to the west where the upper areas bask in the morning to midday sun but receive only dappled light come late afternoon, providing for slower ripening and greater retention of aromatics. While the majority of soils in our vineyard are geologically young volcanic red soils, select parcels find themselves situated in soils eroded from an ancient seafloor dating back 430 million years. We call this area ‘white dirt’ due to the soils noticeably lighter appearance.  As with the previous vintages, we have once again sourced this label entirely from vines within the white dirt to revel in the distinctly beautiful aromatics that entwine with a powerful fruit drive which billows with fine talc like tannins. We bottle this small parcel separately to showcase its contribution towards the fragrant peak of the Estate Curly Flat Pinot Noir blend.

Delicate, nuanced, and irresistibly reminiscent of old-world Burgundy, the 2023 Western Pinot Noir is a triumph of finesse. Pale ruby in the glass, it offers a highly aromatic nose of raspberry, cranberry, red cherry, and orange zest, overlaid with rose petal, dry bay leaf, and forest floor. Notes of cedar, toast, and creamy undertones from oak add further sophistication. On the palate, it is lithe and supple, driven by vibrant acidity and fine, dusty tannins that provide subtle grip without ever overwhelming. The wine is elegant, herbal, and quietly powerful—an ethereal Pinot that lingers long after each sip, with superb balance and tension throughout.

Summary:
Elegant and Burgundian in style, this Western Pinot is all about finesse—red fruits, floral lift, and earthy complexity wrapped in vivid acidity and fine tannins.
Pairing: A lovely match for roast quail, herbed pork tenderloin, or a simple mushroom tart.
Cellaring: Drinking beautifully now; will evolve gracefully through 2030.