2018 Sparkling Pinot Grigio

Blend Composition | 100% Pinot Grigio
Appellation | Napa Valley
Harvest Date | September 4
Finished pH | 3.34
Finished TA | 6.6 g/L
Alcohol by Volume | 13.2% 
Production | 301 cases

VINTAGE
The 2018 growing season got a relatively late start due to a cool and blessedly rainy spring. Summer temperatures remained moderate, with a brief and relatively mild heat spike at the end of July. Our harvest began 15 days later than in 2017, and proceeded at a slow and steady pace, affording us the luxury of picking at peak flavor development and relatively low Brix. Our last pick was on November 6, setting a record for our latest harvest. Yields were up relative to the last several years and the quality is outstanding.

WINEMAKING
The fruit for this wine was grown in the Oak Knoll District, just north of the city of Napa, where the temperatures are notably cooler than at our Estate St. Helena Vineyard. The moderate weather helps heighten the rich aromatics of Pinot Grigio, while retaining a bright acidity that provides a clean and refreshing finish.  This wine’s secondary fermentation took place in bottle. After resting on the yeast lees for 20 months it was disgorged in December, 2020.

TASTING NOTES
Bubbles make everything better! This wine has all the exuberance of our still Pinot Grigio along with the complexity and yeasty characteristics derived from a long maturation on the lees. A broad spectrum of citrus flavors intermingle with floral notes and a rich, biscuity character from the yeast. The bubbles ensure a crisp, clean finish.

PAIRINGS
Delightful on its own when raising a glass with friends. Enjoy with Marcona almonds, prosciutto di Parma, or blini with caviar.

- Matt Reid, Winemaker