Item #848485
Production: 2,900 cases
Hugging the Sonoma coastline from the Mendocino County line to the Marin County border, the Sonoma Coast
AVA is known for its marine climate, which results in cooler temperatures and higher rainfall relative to other
Sonoma County sub-appellations. These conditions enable the Pinot Noir varietal to thrive. The grapes for this wine
were grown in vineyards at high elevations with rocky and volcanic soils where the vines struggle for existence and
yield only a few, but highly flavorful, grapes per vine. The Kirkland Signature 2006 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is an
excellent representation of this highly regarded appellation.
Vineyard notes: There is only one cascading ridge between the ocean and the vineyards from which this Kirkland
Signature Pinot Noir is sourced. The resulting cold climate reduces the Pinot Noir crop to miniscule levels – and they
are often picked as late as October and November. The cool, and frequently foggy, coastal climate preserves natural
acidity in the grapes, helping to define the fruit flavors. Balanced acidity, layers of complexity and firm tannins will
allow for long and graceful aging of this Pinot Noir.
2006 Vintage: After a very warm July, the weather cooled in late summer and early fall, which slowed ripening and
all but guaranteed a late start to the harvest. Cool weather throughout the growing season caused a drawn-out harvest,
which was significantly impacted by rain at the beginning of October. The long, slow maturation of the grapes
produced well-balanced wines with good acidity in those vineyards where
winemakers were careful to monitor their progress thoughout the varied
climate changes of the season.
OREGON IDAHO
The fruit for this Pinot Noir was hand-sorted and fully de-stemmed with
no crushing. The crushed grapes were cold-soaked for 4 to 5 days. After
inoculation with selected yeast, the juice was fermented at 85 to 90°F,
with minimal punchdowns (twice a day or less) to bring out the inherent
character of the grapes from this vintage. Total skin contact ranged from
11 to 18 days with all fermentations being carefully basket-pressed and
then put into barrel for 8 months. Santa Cruz
NEVADA
Alexander Valley
Napa Valley
Sonoma County
Sacramento
San Francisco
Montery
Pacific
Ocean
Paso Robles
Edna Valley
This lush and supple wine shows flavors of black cherry and
raspberry, and hints of dried flowers. Tannins are supple, creating a
lingering finish of anise and fresh berries. It would be an excellent
partner with a grilled lamb or a lightly spiced fish. This wine can
be enjoyed now or cellared for 3 to 5 years.
Los Angeles
