Goldeneye Pinot Noir Anderson Valley 2021

Goldeneye 2021 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir: A Symphony of Elegance and Rustic Beauty

Crafted by the visionary duo of Dan and Margaret Duckhorn, the 2021 Goldeneye Anderson Valley Pinot Noir represents the culmination of their passion for this noble varietal and the unique terroir of Anderson Valley. Building upon their legacy of excellence established at Duckhorn Vineyards, this vintage embodies the essence of Pinot Noir, showcasing both its captivating elegance and its deep, rustic charm.

A Legacy of Excellence:

In 1996, drawn by the burgeoning reputation of Anderson Valley as one of the world's premier Pinot Noir regions, the Duckhorns embarked on a new chapter. They established Goldeneye, a winery dedicated to crafting Pinot Noir expressions that capture the soul of this land. This 2021 vintage stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that has become synonymous with the Goldeneye name.

Vintage Notes:

The 2021 growing season unfolded under the watchful eye of the Anderson Valley climate. A dry winter yielded to welcome rainfall in early March, followed by a gentle warming that coaxed the first buds into life. By mid-April, the vineyards displayed vibrant health, with 100% budbreak across all three estates. The summer months were marked by dryness and mild temperatures, punctuated by occasional bursts of heat that ensured even ripening. Harvest commenced with Chardonnay for the sparkling wines in mid-August, followed by the first Pinot Noir clusters in early September. A late-August heatwave spurred a focused harvest period, which was later extended by a natural cool-down. The last pick of the season took place on October 6th, marking the culmination of another exceptional vintage in Anderson Valley. The fruit harvested during this period exhibited exceptional quality, resulting in wines of remarkable concentration, flavour, and aromatic complexity.

Winemaking Notes:

This 2021 Pinot Noir is a captivating tapestry of aromas and flavours, woven together with meticulous care. The first impression tantalises the nose with vibrant notes of ripe raspberry and black cherry, intertwined with hints of pennyroyal, clove, and sweet baking spices. On the palate, supple tannins and a perfectly balanced acidity frame the juicy flavours of blackberry and Bing cherry. As the wine evolves, savoury hints of nutmeg, leather, and breakfast tea emerge, lingering on the long, robust finish. This exquisite expression is a testament to the meticulous winemaking philosophy employed at Goldeneye. The grapes were sourced predominantly from the estate vineyards – Confluence, Gowan Creek, The Narrows, and Cerise – each contributing their unique nuances to the final blend. The wine spent 16 months ageing in 100% French oak barrels, with 42% new oak adding subtle structure and complexity. The resulting profile is a harmonious balance between fruit-forward charm and oak-derived elegance.

Technical Specifications:

• Appellation: Anderson Valley
• Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir (48% estate fruit)
• Ageing: 16 months in 100% French oak (42% new, 58% neutral)
• Alcohol: 14.2%
• pH: 3.53
• Acidity: 0.57 g/100 ml
• Rootstock: Various clones
• Soils: Wolfey-Bearwallow Complex; Pinole, Perrygulch, and Boontling loams
• Fermentation: All small lot, open-top fermentations separated by pick day, block, and clone

A Wine for the Discerning Palate:

The 2021 Goldeneye Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is more than just a wine; it is an experience. It is a testament to the dedication of Dan and Margaret Duckhorn, the unique terroir of Anderson Valley, and the meticulous winemaking practices employed at Goldeneye. This Pinot Noir is a perfect choice for discerning wine lovers who appreciate elegance, complexity, and a touch of rustic charm. Whether enjoyed alongside a gourmet meal or savoured on its own, this exceptional wine promises a truly unforgettable experience.