2000 Olivet Lane Pinot Noir
Winemaker's Comments
In the heart of Russian River Valley, along a country road lined with old olive trees, is Olivet Lane Vineyard, one of the most mature plantings in our region. At thirty years of age, Olivet Lane is a rare, heritage vineyard, the epitomy of Russian River Valley terroir.
The venerable grapes from Olivet Lane have concentrated Bing cherry character. I extract the grapes' deep flavor by using the traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques I call Methode a I'Ancienne. Building on a core of perfectly ripe fruit, I add even more texture by the influence of eighty-five percent new French oak barrels, custom made by Francois Freres.
The 2000 Olivet Lane Pinot Nair aged eleven months in these barrels, enhancing the wine's attractive spicy character. The result is a silky, curvaceous wine with a hint of mystery. There is pedigree here-a purity, elegance and richness drawn from the roots of this mature vineyard. I taste a long future for this Pinot Nair, its focused, classic tone continuing through a lasting, succulent finish.