2017 Bjornson Vineyards Pinot Noir Saignee
Bjornson Vineyard is in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA and was planted in 2006. The soil on the site is primarily volcanic remnants, or Nekia soil, with marine sedimentary overlay against basalt bedrock.
In 2017 we made thsi wine with Pommard and Dijon 777 clones. We used the saignée method to siphon off a portion of juice about 24-hours after de-stemming, resulting in a rich pink color. We fermented the wine using native yeasts in a stainless steel barrels. The wine completed secondary fermentation and finished its six months of aging in stainless steel.
The grapes were picked a little late due to weather so the alcohol this year is a bit higher than we planned. As a result, this vintage is full and rich. On the nose we smell orange blossom, dried apricot, and a subtle nuttiness. On the palate the apricot continues and is supported by subtle tannins, a full mouthfeel, and medium-plus acidity.
