2018 Madson Pinot Noir, Toyon Vineyard, Santa Cruz Mountains
This Pinot Noir comes from Toyon Vineyard on the Santa Cruz Mountains’ southwestern slope. At 400 ft of elevation and only 3 miles from the ocean this vineyard is largely impacted by cool temperatures and cloud coverage. The vineyard is planted on Purisima formation which includes sandstone, siltstone and mudstone. We farm this vineyard 100% organically with the goal of converting to biodynamics. A melange of various clones, this cuvée fermented mostly as intact, whole clusters. Fermentation occurred spontaneously with a submerged cap and no punch downs. After 22 days on the skins we pressed to neutral 228L oak barrels and performed bi-monthly battonage until MLF finished. Racked only once before bottling, this wine was unfined and unfiltered and only received one small SO2 addition. This wine presents aromas of raspberry bramble, bing cherry, clove, white pepper, and mushroom in the nose. Soft tanninsbroaden the mouthfeel while bright fruits keep the wine fresh and lively. Enjoy now or cellar for 10-20 years.