Acacia Winery, Pinot Noir, Winery Lake Vineyard, Carneros 2004 ($30)
The Winery Lake Vineyard was one of the original fruit sources for Acacia Pinot Noir when they started in the late 1970’s. First planed by noted grower Rene di Rosa in the 1960’s, it was the the basis for vineyard-designated wines from several producers until the vineyard was sold to Sterling in the mid-1980’s. Acacia has secured fruit to make this single vineyard selection for the 2004 vintage and, hopefully, forward. Replanted recently to Dijon clone Pinot Noir, the vineyard has rocky, volcanic soil and, of course, a lake.
The wine is dark ruby in color with aromas of raspberry, black cherry and spices. Rich and silky in the mouth, it delivers raspberry and plum fruit, a touch of Pinot funk, cinnamon and some fine, but noticeable (for Pinot), tannins. A little hot on the finish but overall a very nicely done Carneros Pinot in a slightly bigger style than other Acacia bottlings. Since it’s a little tight right now, I might leave this one in the cellar for a couple more years to smooth out some more.
14.2% ABV
Natural cork closure
Score: 9/10
Note: this wine seems to be in short supply from the web searches I’ve done. According to the Acacia website, it is currently sold out at the winery.