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Rowland Wines

1997 ATLAS PEAK

PINOT NOIR

Oooo la la!.... That fantastic '97 harvest!

     The key elements that contributed to the success of this harvest at 1800 feet above sea level in '97 was the perfect warmth generated during the days, which improved fruit character, while the cool afternoon breezes preserved the delicate spice tones. The ideal night and morning temperatures helped to delay harvest to provide more time for the berries to develop color and flavor. The low yielding clone with its small, thick-skinned berries increased the intensity of the flavors. These factors contributed most to the concentration of the fruit. Good trellis management and increased sun exposure through leaf removal also benefited fruit quality.
    We are very happy with our 1997 wine from Atlas Peak. The wine shows its typical vineyard designate characteristics with a broad bouquet of dried cherries, spices, minerals, earth and tobacco scents that fill the glass. On the palate, dried cherries follow through with consistency, the mid-palate is enriched with ground cloves and spices followed by a long finish. Another exceptional wine from a fantastic vintage.


Notes and Stats

Style:

Accadian

Vineyard Location:

Atlas Peak 100%: 1800 feet above sea level, mountainside, shallow rocky soil, volcanic in origin

Harvested:

October 12th @ 2.4 ton/acre

Time on Skins:

Cold Maceration 46 days, 30 days total

Fermentation Type:

100% Whole berry

Yeast:

100% wild yeast

Clone:

Clone #6: Thick skins, low yields with small berries

Cooperage:

50% New French Oak, 50% French Oak 1 year old

Clarification:

Lightly fined, unfiltered.

Case Production:

560
Winemakers Notes:
Black ruby color, earthy red/black fruits with an intense dried cranberry and clove potpourri bouquet. Dried cherry, cranberry flavors, smoky oak, exotic spices with a long full palate for aging.

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