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2008 Pinot Meunier

What is it? Pinot Meunier (MUH-n’yay) is a close relative to Pinot Noir and was identified as such before the 16th century. Based on recent DNA “fingerprinting”, an early Pinot vine and a vine called “Gouais Blanc” are the parents of Pinot Meunier and other varieties, including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The name “Meunier” is a French word meaning “the miller”. This term is given to Pinot Meunier due to the distinctive, flour-dusted appearance on its leaves. Pinot Meunier Photo Gallery

What is it like as a still wine? Pinot Meunier was traditionally used to make sparkling wine, however as a still wine it is very similar to Pinot Noir. Pinot Meunier is appreciated for its aromatics, fruitiness, soft tannins and spicy finish. It is a varietal that provides its most pleasure when consumed within 3 to 5 years of the vintage.

The Vintage: The 2008 vintage is another example of “patience pays” in the vineyard. The growing season was an extended and cool vintage accumulating only 1,930 degree days, but with one of the best September ripening periods on record. September is the key month for developing flavors and aromatics in the berries.

Rainfall was typical with just a little shot of rain at the first of October. This is Mother Nature’s way of extending the growing season and to put her finishing touches on our vines. We began harvest on October 11th and concluded on October 30th with the Syrah and Viognier.

Tasting Notes: Ruby red in the glass extends an invitation. The aromas are deep and rich with ripe blackberries, spice, tilled earth and lemon zest. The palate is broad with succulent red fruits, quince and nutmeg. The finish lingers and provides acidity that is typical of this variety.

Unfined and unfiltered. 70 cases produced.

Suggested food pairings: Pinot Meunier pairs well with anything that would pair with Pinot Noir. The natural acidity of Pinot Meunier is a perfect foil for rich dishes such as Duck Confit and Steak Dianne. Blue cheeses including Morbier and Camembert are very complimentary.

2008 Pinot Meunier Accolades

Josh Raynolds - Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, July/August 2010

Light, bright red. Delicate aromas of redcurrant and strawberry, with a suave floral quality in the background. Zesty red fruit flavors are complemented by notes of blood orange, white pepper and subtle herbs. Finishes brisk and refreshing, leaving tangy berry skin notes behind. I like this wine's light touch. 90 points.

2006 Pinot Meunier Accolades

Josh Raynolds - Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/June 2009

Bright red. Spicy cherry on the nose, with deeper cocoa and black tea notes adding an element of seriousness. Red berry and bitter cherry flavors are complicated by brown spice and succulent herb qualities and given structure by gentle tannins. Finishes with good spicy lift and sweet persistence. More structured than the pinot noir; in fact, this benefited from decanting. 90 points.