2011 Sonatera Vineyard Pinot Noir

Our fascination with the great red Burgundies comes from the singular aromatics and complexities that are born in unique vineyards but a few kilometers apart. It is why we undertook the challenge and risk to focus on each specific clone of Pinot Noir that is best in harmony with each vineyard site – our Single Vineyard, Single Clone, and Single Cooperate wines – MonoClone®.

Sonatera is one of those unique vineyard sites that truly exemplifies the Soliste philosophy and style. The hilltop vineyard has three different exposures, facing north, south, and west. This geography funnels brisk marine winds over the vines reducing vigor, extending the ripening period of the grapes, and allowing distinctive aromatics to develop. Once you have tasted Sonatera Pinot Noir, you will always be able to identify its origins. 

Tasting Notes 

Le Regard / The Look
Intense depth and luminosity of dark boysenberries and Blueberries showing density and structure, with pure reflections of deep amethyst gem.

Le Nez / The Nose
The nose starts with refined earthy scents, musty forest floor (sous-bois) and wet mushrooms, which lingers into darkly fruited (dark cherries, spiced plums, blueberries), very sensual and exotic. Then slowly the aromas begin to envelop you while adding notes of cardamom, truffles, and tea must. As the wine evolves in the glass or decanter, the aromatics become more voluptous and muscular with intense dark fruit, the always present dark wild cherries, laced with oriental spices and cocoa nibs. There is a lingering scent of caramelized blueberries, vanilla bean, sandalwood, typical to Sonatera’s terroir.

Degustation / The Taste
The palate delivers extraordinary micro texture and depth with layers of exotic spice and black tea, filling your mouth with a refined concentration of voluptuous dark and blue fruit spiked with toasted sourdough bread. The Mid palate is herbaceous and spicy which elevates the wine as it is layered with a silky

caramelized blueberry and plum compote, violets, licorice, exotic spices, and earthy truffles (The power and charm of Gevrey Chambertain). The texture is pure Sonatera, very velvety with fatty vanilla and exotic black pepper, creating a rich and lingering density. The tannins are extremely polished, yet the wine has amazing verve from high herbal tones and exotic spices. The finish is more reflective of the bright acidity found in the cool 2011 vintage, which bring in elevated aromatics of sandalwood, earthiness, and exotic spices. Sonatera 2011, superbly focused, a pure reflection of the site, exotic and refined power.

13.0% alc. 123 cases