August West Wines Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2023

Viticulture

The 2023 August West Russian River Pinot Noir is our first release of the vintage.  Comprised of 85% Graham Family Vineyard and 15% Morris Ranch, this was the latest we ever harvested our RRV by two weeks.  The first half of Graham and the Morris were picked on October 13, and the second half of Graham came in on October 19.  Prior to 2023, the latest we harvested our RRV was in 2012 when we picked on October 5.  The growing season got off to a very late start due to a cold, rainy winter.  With normal spring and summer weather patterns, which means cool and foggy in the RRV, the vintage never caught up, so we had a very late harvest.

Vineyards:  Graham Family, Morris Ranch

Vinification

Aging: 10 months in 20% new French oak
Fermentation: 100% destemmed
Bottling Date: 7-16-24
570 cases produced

Tasting notes

Delicate aromas of wild berry fruits, subtle mint and loamy earth.  The flavors and mouthfeel on the palate are enticing, with a wonderful texture, good acidity and some surprising tannins in the finish.