The “Twelve Clones” Pinot Noir is drawn from the finest vineyards of the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation, including Morgan’s own organically farmed “Double L” estate. In the 2007 vintage the Double L accounted for 44% of the final blend. The “Twelve Clones” designation denotes the original diverse Pinot plantings at the Double L. Vines here capture the warm morning sunshine from
their elevated east facing terraces overlooking the Salinas River Valley. Strong afternoon winds and evening fog from nearby Monterey Bay create a cool Region I type climate. The resulting long growing season allows for gentle ripening, creating intense flavors with balanced acidity.
The ‘07 vintage is one of the finest from the Highlands. High stress from a dry winter and cool, wet spring resulted in a 40% decrease in crop production. Summer and fall presented ideal ripening conditions for good hang-time and a clean harvest. The grapes were picked then hand-sorted in the vineyard. Upon arriving at the winery, the grapes are sorted a second time before being destemmed.
Whole berry fermentation is started using native yeasts in small open top tanks. Three times each day the cap is gently punched down by hand. After fermentation, the wine was transferred into a combination of new and one and two year-old French cooperage. The wine aged for almost a year before being bottled.
This special wine demonstrates the power and finesse of Pinot Noir from the Santa Lucia Highlands. It displays aromas of red cherries, cola, rose petals and spicy earth tones. Flavors of red cherries and berries are complemented by notes of toast, vanilla, leather, and spice. This Pinot’s perfectly poised fruit / acid balance makes it incredibly food-versatile. It is a wonderful accompaniment to roast chicken and grilled salmon, as well as almost any duck, beef, or lamb preparation...
Reviews
90 / One Puff, Connoisseurs' Guide, June 2009
88, Wine Enthusiast, September 2009
