Mitsuko's vineyard pinot noir 2018 (Clos Pegase)

Cellar for up to 5 years. No need to decant before serving. Clos Pegase owns the 365 acre Mitsuko vineyard in Los Carneros which is named after founder Jan Shrem’s late wife. The site is home to a wealth of microclimates and soils planted with 8 different grape varieties. Thanks to extensive research and experimentation the varieties have been carefully matched to the best-suited zones on the property. This Pinot Noir is grown in an area which benefits from breezes from the nearby San Pablo Bay which help to modify the hot summer days and preserve freshness and elegance in the grapes. The grapes are harvested early in the morning and then transported immediately to the winery so they arrive in peak condition. They are then vinified and matured in oak barrels for 9 months before bottling. The result is a complex and flavoursome Pinot with ample smooth tannins, a medium body and plenty of bright red fruit character along with hints of sweet spice, rhubarb and tobacco. One of Napa’s top estates, Clos Pegase is best known for its stunning modern winery designed by architect Michael Graves and vast 20,000 square foot network of caves which are used as cellars. Set in the volcanic hills close to Calistoga, the estate has a total of 400 acres of prime Napa Valley vineyards.