Clos de la Tech Pinot Noir Domaine Valeta Sunny Slope 2017 750ml

Quite dark in the glass, this block-designated bottling from a ridgetop vineyard at 2,350 feet begins with earthy aromas of porcini dust, fennel pollen and muddled mulberry. Beefy tannins make their presence known immediately on the palate, cradling the forest herb, fennel bulb and curry leaf flavors. This will be a fun evolution to track. Drink now–2040. (Cellar Selection)

• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Appellation: Santa Cruz County
• Sub Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 13.6%

Varietal

Pinot Noir

Regularly described as being the grape varietal responsible for producing the world’s most romantic wines, Pinot Noir has long been associated with elegance and a broad range of flavors The name means ‘black pine’ in French, and this is due to the fact that the fruit of this particular varietal is especially dark in color, and hangs in a conical shape, like that of a pine cone. Despite being grown today in almost every wine producing country, Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape variety to cultivate. This is because it is especially susceptible to various forms of mold and mildew, and thrives best in steady, cooler climates. However, the quality of the fruit has ensured that wineries and vintners have persevered with the varietal, and new technologies and methods have overcome many of the problems it presents. Alongside this, the wide popularity and enthusiasm for this grape has ensured it will remain a firm favorite amongst wine drinkers for many years to come.