2006 Pinot Noir - Fiddlestix Vineyard

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Overview
Our 2006 Pinot Noir from Fiddlestix Vineyard represents a careful selection of barrels that showcase the distinctive quality and personality of this acclaimed site in Santa Barbara County's Santa Rita Hills. The barrels were chosen from a larger lot by Winemakers Chuck Ortman and Matt Ortman, who wanted to craft an expressive wine that vividly captured the vineyard's signature black fruit flavors and enticing earthy nuances. The remaining barrels were incorporated into our Santa Rita Hills bottling of Pinot Noir.

Vineyard
Fiddlestix Vineyard resides in the heart of the Santa Rita Hills at mile marker 7.28 along Santa Rosa Road. Here, the rare west-to-east orientation of the hills combines with coastal proximity to forge an unparalleled Pinot Noir climate, with reliable morning fog and consistent Pacific breezes that orchestrate optimal ripening. Under the direction of winegrower Kathy Joseph, Fiddlestix Vineyard is guided by cutting-edge viticulture, with close vine spacing, premium clonal selections and hands-on attention to detail. The result is a pure and terroir-driven expression of the Pinot Noir grape, with intense black fruit flavors, firm acidity and exquisite structure.

Winemaking
The 2006 vintage didn't produce big, brawny Pinot Noirs, but rather delivered a more classical style with grace and complexity. In order to nurture these qualities, only the gentlest hands-on winemaking methods were employed. The must was cold soaked for five days, followed by fermentation in small 1.5-ton bins. The cap was punched down manually three times daily during fermentation for enhanced color and extraction. After light pressing, the wine was returned to tank for two days of settling, then racked to French oak barrels for aging. Medium-toast Allier and Tronçais barrels were selected for their harmonious contribution to the Ortman style of Pinot Noir.

Tasting Notes
The 2006 vintage begins with delicate aromas of strawberry, raspberry jam and oak toast. A richly textured palate unfolds with flavors of black cherry, wild berry, cola and spice. The finish is round and soft, with juicy acidity. This complex Pinot Noir will age gracefully over the next several years and will benefit from decanting in its youth. Recommended pairings include seared scallops with truffles, grilled swordfish, roast leg of lamb, and classic roast beef.

Purchase
Fact Sheet (1 page, 183 KB)

92 Points
"A young, fresh Pinot...Cherry, red plum, sandalwood and spice flavors."
Wine Enthusiast - December 2008

4 Stars - Exceptional!
"Rich, ruby red color. The nose is wonderfully dense with the scent of fresh crushed berries, black cherry, earth, sweet oak, vanilla, and pepper. The palate is lush while lively with bright, fresh acidity and accents of pepper, and oak. Long lasting with lingering notes of dried berry, allspice, and earth. A big wine with a big emphasis on balance and style."
Beverage Experts - November 3, 2008