Joseph Phelps Pinot Noir Pastorale Vineyard

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Venture into the aromatic labyrinth of Joseph Phelps Pinot Noir Pastorale Vineyard, where you’ll be greeted with a tapestry of scent woven from ripe plum and red cherry fruits, tinged with the enigmatic aura of pepper and pencil shavings. Allow the wine to dance on your palate, revealing layers of red berries and baking spices that give way to an earthen suite of perfumed soil and ancillary cardamom notes. With a sip, the wine unleashes a narrative that tells of its origins; the Freestone’s fog-kissed mornings and the Goldridge sandy loam nurturing each vine. This wine’s character is not simply tasted; it’s experienced through a mélange of velvety textures, vibrant acids, and an almost paradoxical light yet profound structure. The harmony of 14% alcohol bestows a welcoming warmth that easily carries the full-bodied symphony to a resonant finish.

Pairings & Suggestions

• Savor this exquisite Pinot Noir with herb-encrusted lamb chops or wild mushroom risotto to accentuate its earthy undertones.
• For the cheese aficionados, a charcuterie board featuring aged Gouda or creamy Brie will beautifully complement the wine’s fruit nuances.
• Indulge in a dessert of dark chocolate fondant to harmonize with the wine’s subtle spice notes and silky texture.

  Fog’s Crucial Embrace

The Freestone area, part of the Sonoma Coast AVA, is famed for its cooling fog and maritime breezes, which play a pivotal role in crafting the Pastorale Vineyard’s Pinot Noir. This unique microclimate slows the ripening process, endowing the grapes with remarkable complexity and balance. As dinner conversation turns to the enchanting realms of viticulture, a discourse on the influence of fog in winemaking ignites fascination and appreciation among oenophiles and novices alike.

Taste Profile

Technical Sheet

Storage Instructions

To maintain its distinctive character, store the Joseph Phelps Pinot Noir Pastorale Vineyard between 55-60�F in a dark, humidity-controlled environment, avoiding any vibration or abrupt temperature changes.