California Pinot Noir with Clean Smooth Texture

Gearbox 2023 California Pinot Noir

BLEND: 100% Pinot Noir
ALC: 14.5% by vol.
AGING: 10 months in French oak
pH: 3.6
Acidity: 5.5 g/mL
Residual Sugar: 2.5 g/L

90 pts | WINE ENTHUSIAST

Vineyards

The grapes were handpicked at optimal ripeness from select vineyards across California, known for their cool climates that are ideal for cultivating Pinot Noir. After careful sorting, the grapes underwent a gentle destemming process to preserve the integrity of the fruit. Fermentation took place in open-top fermenters, allowing for manual punch-downs and gentle handling to extract color and flavor without over-extracting tannins. This method facilitated a controlled and even fermentation, crucial for developing the wine's elegant profile. The Pinot Noir was aged in French oak barrels to add complexity and depth. The use of oak was judicious, with a mix of new and seasoned barrels to ensure that the oak flavors complemented rather than dominated the delicate fruit characteristics. This aging process, typically lasting about 10 months, allowed the wine to develop integrated tannins and subtle spice notes while maintaining the varietal's characteristic red fruit and earthy tones. The result is a beautifully balanced California Pinot Noir that showcases the region's ability to produce nuanced and sophisticated wines, with a potential for graceful aging.

Wine

The 2023 Pinot Noir from California is a refined and beautifully structured wine that captures the essence of its cool-climate origins. It presents a vibrant ruby color, inviting a deeper exploration of its aromatic complexity. On the nose, this Pinot Noir offers a seductive bouquet of ripe red cherries and fresh strawberries, elegantly intertwined with subtle floral hints of rose petals and a delicate layer of earthy undertones, adding depth and intrigue. The palate is silky and smooth, offering a harmonious blend of red fruit flavors, notably raspberry and cranberry, intertwined with nuances of spice and a gentle touch of oak. This integration results in a well-rounded mouthfeel with balanced acidity and soft tannins, leading to a smooth, lingering finish that leaves a refreshing impression of finesse and sophistication. This California Pinot Noir is an exquisite example of varietal and regional expression, perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes or enjoying on its own.