Winemaking Process | Ridgecrest Vineyard embraces the challenges each vintage brings, and 2020 was no exception. Located in the Ribbon Ridge AVA, the vineyard benefited from a near-perfect growing season, resulting in concentrated fruit from low yields. However, the year presented a unique challenge with the Willamette Valley's first encounter with wildfire effects.
Ridgecrest's winemaking approach for this vintage focused on a lighter touch in extraction, allowing the true character of Ribbon Ridge site to shine through. The 2020 Ridgecrest Pinot Noir was aged for 9 months in French oak barrels, with a precise mix of 36% new, 36% 1-year-old, and 28% neutral oak. This careful oak regimen contributes to the wine's complexity while maintaining the integrity of the fruit.
With only 864 cases produced, this limited release showcases the winery's commitment to quality and reflects the unique conditions of the 2020 vintage. While enjoyable now, this wine has the potential to age beautifully until 2032.
Tasting Notes | Picture a glass filled with a wine that embodies the essence of Ribbon Ridge terroir. The 2020 Ridgecrest Pinot Noir greets you with an intriguing nose of graphite or flint, accentuating the barrel spice and warm intensity characteristic of this ripe and dense vintage.
As you inhale deeply, aromas of pie cherry, tea leaf, ginger snaps, and black licorice unfold, creating a complex and inviting bouquet. On the palate, you'll encounter a tight, youthful tannin structure with an almost mineral or copper-like quality. This supple yet linear structure promises excellent aging potential.
The flavor profile is a masterful balance of elegance and density. Cherry gum drop and barrel resin notes mingle with warm toast, Szechuan peppercorn, walnut shell, and a hint of ripe apricot on the finish. It's a wine that beautifully navigates the line between youthful vigor and traditional refinement.
How to Enjoy | To fully appreciate the nuances of this exceptional Pinot Noir, we recommend serving it at a cool room temperature, around 60-65°F (15-18°C). While the wine is drinking beautifully now, it will continue to evolve and develop in complexity over the next decade.
Consider pairing this versatile wine with dishes that complement its elegant yet dense profile:
* Herb-crusted rack of lamb
* Grilled portobello mushrooms with aged balsamic
* Cedar-planked salmon with a cherry compote
* Duck breast with a five-spice reduction
For those who prefer to cellar their wines, this 2020 Ridgecrest Pinot Noir promises to reward patience. If enjoying in its youth, we recommend decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving to allow the wine to fully open up and reveal its layers of complexity.
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