Pinot Pleasure with Dutcher Crossing

A forever love affair of mine with Pinot Noir continues with Dutcher Crossing

Dutcher Crossing Placida Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021, Russian River, California

9,084 bottles

Planted in 2003 by the Ordaz a family, the 9 acre vineyard 2021 was the first release from Placida vineyard for Dutcher Crossing. A blend of 3 different clones, Calera, Clone 777 and 677. Fermented with indigenous yeasts, aged in French oak barrel for 11 months, 75% in barrels once used.

Pours into the glass a shining bright ruby color. A whisper of oak allows the varietal’s character to take its place front and center. Intriguing aromas of pomegranate, cranberry, mushroom, jasmine, forest floor, and black cherry tempt you into the glass to explore flavors of cranberry, raspberry, cherry cola, cocoa, orange peel, wet leaves, black tea, vanilla into a lengthy clove and allspice finish. There’s a fair amount of pleasant acidity and plush tannins in the mid palate with a refreshing wave of bright acidity in the finish. 

Roast lamb with a cherry-olive jus, a duck confit is always welcome or stewed wild mushrooms over creamy polenta. Bon appétit