Ancien Pinot Noir Haynes Old Block 2018, Coombsville, Callifornia

In 1966, Pat and Duncan Haynes planted their vineyard to Martini Pinot Noir and Wente Chardonnay. These old school, widely spaced, cane pruned vines are now tended by Fernando Delgado. He prunes each vine individually, according to its strength and potential, choosing which canes to keep and how many canes and shoots that each vine will grow. Only the original and healthiest vines are allowed to be included in the limited pick to produce this very special wine. Classic Ancien small lot winemaking is performed using one fermenter filled by gravity and punched down by hand. With its brilliant garnet color, this wine displays balance, grace, and the most velvety of textures. The palate mirrors the lively nose featuring initial fruits of strawberry and cranberry intermixed with blood orange, sandalwood, and fresh herbs. The fruit concentrates on the mid-palate somewhat, revealing notes of wild berry pie and tea. The hedonistic palate is bright and expansive, with a silken texture. A deep inhale of aromas can make one imagine a walk through a freshly rained on herb garden. It finishes with a light, understated grip, and moves backward through the finish. The finish continues to evolve toward more earthen and mineral notes, as it coats the entire palate and continues to reveal new aromas.

$74.99