2022 Failla Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Winemaking Process | At Failla, winemaker Ehren Jordan brings his French viticultural training and passion for cool-climate viticulture to bear on the distinctive terroir of the Sonoma Coast. This Pinot Noir is a testament to quality farming, mature vines, and the unique conditions of this coastal region, where fog and ocean influence combine with diverse soils to create ideal conditions for Pinot Noir.

Approximately 25% of the grapes used in this bottling come from Failla's estate vineyards, with the remainder sourced from carefully selected sites throughout the Sonoma Coast AVA. The winemaking process is designed to highlight the purity of fruit and express the essence of these cool-climate vineyards.

The grapes are harvested by hand, with 30% of the clusters left whole during pressing to add complexity and structure. Fermentation occurs using native yeasts, allowing for a slow, natural process that brings out the nuanced flavors of the fruit. The wine is then aged for 8 months in French oak barrels, with only 15% new oak to ensure the delicate fruit character isn't overshadowed. In keeping with Ehren's minimalist approach, the wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered, preserving its natural essence.

Tasting Notes | As you pour a glass of Failla Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, you'll be struck by its vibrant color, hinting at the lively wine within. The nose is immediately enticing, offering a floral perfume intertwined with bright red fruit aromas and subtle notes of wild herbs.

On the palate, the wine reveals its true character. Juicy pomegranate seeds burst forth, providing a tangy freshness that dances on the tongue. The structure is one of finesse and elegance, with supple tannins and refreshing acidity providing a perfect backdrop for the fruit.

As the wine opens up, you'll notice additional layers of complexity. Sweet spices mingle with rose petal and mint, while succulent cherry and plum notes add depth to the fruit profile. The finish is long and inviting, with a final burst of fruit that leaves you reaching for another sip.

This Pinot Noir strikes a beautiful balance between fruit purity and structural elegance, embodying the best qualities of its cool-climate origins.

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). This temperature range helps to highlight the wine's fresh fruit characteristics and floral notes.

While enjoyable now, this wine has the structure to develop beautifully over the next 3-5 years. If you choose to open it now, consider decanting for 30 minutes to an hour to allow the full range of aromas and flavors to emerge.

This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Consider serving it alongside:

* Herb-roasted chicken
* Grilled salmon with a cherry compote
* Wild mushroom risotto
* Soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert

The wine's juicy acidity and elegant structure make it an excellent companion for dishes with a bit of richness, as it helps to cleanse the palate between bites.

With only 500 cases produced, this Failla Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir represents a limited opportunity to experience the artistry of Ehren Jordan and the distinctive terroir of the Sonoma Coast. Whether you're a long-time fan of cool-climate Pinot Noir or new to the style, this wine offers a beautiful expression of the variety's potential in this unique region.