Laetitia Les Galets Pinot Noir 2018

2018 was a moderate vintage. Above average rainfall in the Spring replenished soil water reserves and refilled aquafers. Cooler daytime temperatures in the Summer shifted the ripening season—extended hang time allowed for optimal flavor development. The resulting 2018 crop was even and mid-sized, expressing excellent fruit character. A generally cool summer was followed up by a slightly warmer than average fall. This culminated in a steady ripening of the fruit to peak ripeness.

WINEMAKER NOTES

After settling for 12 hours post-pressing, the wine was racked clean and barreled to 90% Neutral French oak, Francois Freres new oak at 10%. Malo-lactic fermentation occurred naturally and was complete by late winter. The wine was never racked out of barrel until the time for bottling in early July 2018.

TASTING NOTES

Intense aromas of black cherry, rhubarb, flint and earth drive out of the glass. Polished, with more dark fruit, baking spice and plumb notes that coat well- structured but delicate tannins.