2009 Pinot Noir

The premier 2009 release of Metaphora’s Pinot Noir could not have picked a better year. It was the talk all over the Napa Valley. Phrases like, “Can you believe the color, the ripeness, the grape maturity”? This wine comprises two distinct regions from Napa, Atlas Peak and the Carneros.

First, two distinct wines originating from Pier Antinori’s Atlas Peak Vineyards high above the Napa Valley floor, and cared for by a superb viticulturist Glen Salva, comprise 50% of the finished wine. One lot being 100% a mix of Dijon clones, the second lot being 100% old vine Pommard clone.

The Dijon clones have been the “hottest” addition in the world of Pinot Noir vineyards, and lend depth of color, alcohol, extract and certainly a more Cote de Nuit character. The Atlas Peak fruit brings to the party the black cherry and strawberry aromas. During fermentation, the Atlas Peak brought so much Burgundian character to defy any wine taster where the wine was from, if not Cote de Nuit!

The third and fourth lots are from the well-known Truchard Vineyards in the cool Carneros region of Napa bordering San Pablo Bay; old and young vine Pommard. The Carneros portion lends a bright Bing cherry, cranberry, sassafras and sarsaparilla and a kiss of pomegranate to the aromatic and flavor profile. It was the cooler climate, lower pH element to the mix.

The wine was aged in beautiful French oak barrels (40% new) for 18 months, which added lovely caramel, toffee, and a sweet-lactic creaminess that you often find in great Burgundy. The wine has lovely, long flavor persistence, and silky is what most people say when they taste it. The bright acidity of the wine makes it refreshing and longing for another glass.

All combined you have Metaphora Pinot Noir. Only 330 cases of this delicious wine were produced.

100% Pinot Noir

View Fact Sheet: 2009 Pinot Noir (PDF)
View Fact Sheet: 2010 Pinot Noir (PDF)

90 points | Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide (PDF)