2011 Joseph Swan Pinot Noir Trenton Estate Vineyard

261 c/s. Joseph Swan apparently made great Pinots in the 50s and 60s. Vineyard located in the centre of the Russian River Valley on low hills immediately to the West of the Laguna de Santa Rosa. Early morning fog, moderately warm afternoons and very cool nights. The soil is extremely well drained, finely grained decomposed volcanic ash sandstone, ranging in depth from one to three feet. First vines planted 1969 with additional vines a few years later, all to the Swan clone. An additional 3.5 acres was planted in the mid 1990s to 5 Dijon clones as well as Swan. Production average 1.6 tons per acre. Each lot fermented separately, c 25% of each was whole bunch. Spontaneous ferments. 27 days on skins. 18 months in French oak, 2/3 new.   Mid crimson. Quiet dark cherry nose. Savoury, some earthiness but so refined. Not as obviously lively as some. More subdued but has depth and real savoury spice on the finish. Very very long. Style doesn't shout but the quality does. Firm, savoury yet still so elegant in style. (JH)

Vivid red. Fresh red fruits, flowers and Asian spices on the highly perfumed nose. Juicy and precise, offering vibrant raspberry and cherry flavors and a refreshingly bitter touch of blood orange. Packs a serious punch but comes off lithe. Finishes long and sweet, with gentle tannic grip and lingering floral and spicecake notes. (JR)