Rowland Wines

1995 ATLAS PEAK PINOT NOIR Fate was at hand, the vineyard was slated to be converted to Merlot, just in the nick of time I was able to secure the vineyard and save it. Needless to say at 2.5 ton per acre the fruit is not cheap. Fortunately the vineyard has continued to show the exceptional quality that it can produce. In 1995 I was able to purchase enough fruit to make a wine from this unique variety and location. The key elements that contribute to the success of this vineyard are its location, management, and clonal selection. At 1800 feet above sea level the peak day temperature improves fruit character, while the cool afternoon breezes preserve the delicate spice tones. Cold nights and mornings help delay harvest to provide more time for the berries to color, and flavor to develop. The clone is low yielding, late to ripen, with a small thick skinned berry. These factors contribute most to the concentration of the fruit. Good trellis management and increased sun exposure through leaf removal benefits fruit quality and irons out any vintage inconsistency. The result a highly concentrated, exceptionally colored and flavorful wine unique to its area and variety... Enjoy! Notes and Stats Style: Accadian Vineyard Location: Atlas Peak 100%, 1800 feet above sea level, mountainside, shallow rocky soil volcanic in origin. Harvested: Oct. 15th @ 2.5 ton/acre. Time on Skins: Cold Maceration 5 days, 23 days total. Fermentation Type: 100% Whole berry. Yeast: 100% wild yeast. Clone: Clone #6, Thick skins, low yields with small berries late to ripen. Cooperage: 30% New French Oak, 70% French Oak 1 y.o. Clarification: lightly fined, unfiltered.   Back to Releases page... Also be sure to learn about...