Wine Notes [PDF]

2005 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
Alcohol 14.5%  |  Total Acidity .51  |  pH 3.95

WINEMAKING | Pinot Noir loves the cool climate of the Sonoma Coast and Carneros regions, where growing conditions promote deep and complex flavors. Fog and the cooling breezes off the Pacific Ocean influence winegrowing in these areas. Every step in our winemaking process from cold soaking the fruit to the gentle handling of the grapes is designed to preserve vineyard and varietal character and to encourage a Pinot Noir with soft tannins, acidity and balance. This wine was aged in American and French oak for 15 months.
 
VINTAGE | What began as a heartbreakingly difficult growing season with a cold, wet spring and periodic rains throughout the summer, would become one of Sonoma’s most surprising standout vintages. As harvest approached, we knew that a single rainy day could cost us the vintage. But instead of rain, we got a miracle: 30-plus days of perfect Indian summer. What’s more, the grapes continued to gain weight late in the year, which slowed and lengthened the ripening process. This bit of serendipity combined with great weather brought our grapes to optimal ripeness. We picked the last grapes on November 11—the latest ever for us in Sonoma.
A truly exceptional harvest, 2005 saw both exquisite quality and superb yields.

TASTING NOTES | A wonderfully aromatic wine, the nose is reminiscent of blueberry and clove. The lush texture of this wine is rich, fleshy and full bodied. Layers of flavors greet the palate including raspberry, dark plum, toast, clove and spicy oak. Enjoy this wine with a wide range of dishes such as broiled salmon, prime rib and roasted pork loin.

BENZIGER FARMING PRACTICES | At Benziger Family Winery, we are dedicated to winemaking that reveals the true character of the vineyard, the varietal and the vintage in certified-sustainable, -organically grown and-Biodynamic® wines defined by individuality and the passion of the people who make them. Through our commitment to natural farming and environmentally and socially responsible business practices, we strive for sustainability and the preservation of our Sonoma Mountain family winery for generations to come.

This wine was made with grapes grown by sustainable farming methods. (With the 2007 vintage, this wine will be certified sustainable.) Our sustainable philosophy promotes natural vineyard management, restoration of the land and biodiversity on the estate. We believe these practices result in wines that reflect the authentic flavors, aromas and character of the vineyard.