Cristom Pinot Noir 2013 Eileen Vineyard
The development of Cristom Vineyards is the result of a twenty-plus-year collaboration between an engineer, a winemaker and a farmer – who are, first and foremost, stewards of the land. Founder Paul Gerrie hired Cristom’s winemaker Steve Doerner and Vineyard Manager Mark Feltz in 1992. Together at the winery since day one, they have consistently produced masterful and expressive Pinot Noirs. The four estate Pinot Noir vineyards – Eileen, Jessie, Louise and Marjorie – are named for Gerrie family matriarchs. Each single vineyard has its own natural variances in soil, elevation and exposition, and Steve strives to craft wines that are representative of both the vineyard and vintage. While Cristom Vineyards are widely recognized for single vineyard wines, however their craft of blending is apparent than in their hallmark Pinot Noir cuvées, Mt. Jefferson Cuvée and Sommers Reserve.
Tasting Eileen Vineyard, The 2013 had less whole clusters than previous vintages because of the cooler growing season. Rich Bright Ruby with aromas of red berry fruit, and sweet spices. On the palate, the wine was full-body and showed a focus of fruit, sweet raspberry, cherry, cranberry and currants. The Pinot Noir showed refined smooth tannins surrounded by lively acidity and a touch of earthy minerals and cinnamon spice, giving the wine a tremendous depth and balance. This is a very elegant wine that had great length on the finish. Nice!
Cheers!