Aromatics of ripe cherry and hints of oak. Medium bodied with smooth powdery tannins. Lingering savory finish. Predominately from Comely Bank Vineyard, Waihopai Valley Road, in Marlborough’s Wairau Valley. Grapes are crushed and destemmed at the winery and go thru a 5-day cold soak before warming and inoculating with D254. The ferment is allowed to warm to 32 degrees, the grapes are then hand plunged twice daily to extract color and flavor.
⋅ 2018v – 91pts Wine Spectator
Iris embodies a cornucopia of flavors, with strawberry and raspberry and a hint of cherry.
Crisp & bright on the nose with a velvety smooth finish and slight oak overtone define this elegant work of art.
This label features artwork entitled “Tool of Dissent” –a blaze of color, expressive and captivating work is the artistic.
⋅ 90pts – Wine Enthusiast
⋅ 90pts – James Suckling
⋅ 90pts ‘Gold Medal’ – SF Int’l Wine Competition
⋅ 96pts – California State Fair
⋅ Double Gold – 2019 SF Chronicle Competition
⋅ Double Gold Medal – 2018 Sonoma County Fair
⋅ 94 Points ‘Double Gold Medal’ – Toast of the Coast Wine Competition
An expressive garnet, this opulent, lively Pinot Noir has layers of black currant, wild berry and hibiscus with a touch of dried rose petal and cola aromas. Vibrant flavors of bright black cherry, plum, dried cranberries and a wisp of clove are framed by fine tannins. The mouthwatering acidity and structured layers of pure Pinot Noir fruit lingers through the energetic, finish.
92 Points Editor’s Choice – Wine Enthusiast
Sourced exclusively from cool climate vineyards, our classic California Pinot Noir has aromas of fresh red berries, cranberries, strawberries and plum. The wine is incredibly well-balanced and finishes with a spicy, sweet blood orange zest.
• Gold Medal – WSWA Tasting Competition
The 2018 Higher Ground Pinot Noir displays distinct regional character with layered aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries preserves, and hints of vanilla toffee and toasted oak that extend to the palate. Rich, dark red berry fruit, juicy plum and cranberry flavors are accented with spice notes and a touch of sweet tobacco and smoky earth. This is an elegant, velvety textured Pinot, yet bright, balanced, and altogether delicious.
Higher Ground Pinot Noir is crafted to enhance sophisticated cuisine and the ambience of a fine dining experience. This wine is unique in its ability to compliment flavors ranging from exotic Asian spices; both delicate and robust cheeses; succulent salmon dishes; poultry and game birds and roast or grilled beef. Higher Ground Pinot Noir is offered exclusively to fine restauranteurs and hoteliers.
In the winery, we make cold macerations for 7 to 10 days and then ferment at temperatures of 20 to 25 ° C for 15 days, gentle extractions. 100% of the malolactic fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks and part of the wine is in contact with wood, mainly American oak.
Black cherry and violet characters mingle harmoniously with smoky warm spice. Hints of red cherries, raspberries, and strawberries are balanced with a touch of vanilla and leather. The wine has serious weight and structure while remaining perfectly balanced.
Pinot Noir is a perfect complement to the entire range of fish, of white to fatty, pasta, game birds, duck and pork with sweet sauces.