2019 Division Pinot Noir 'Deux'

This is a brooding Pinot Noir that balances darker plum and blackberry fruit with a salty umami character that reads like Japanese nori or kombu. Ample allspice rounds out the palate, and the lush tannin acidity combine to for a concentrated and cellarable Pinot Noir that is supremely enjoyable to drink.

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Viticulture

The Willamette Valley is a perfect match for Pinot Noir, a variety that seems to show its best on the fringes of suitable grape farming area. The 2019 vintage was beautifully reminiscent of the classic vintages of northern Europe. After a relatively cool and humid summer by Oregon standards, some nice dry weather came in time for veraison with mild to cool temperatures during the day and cool to cold at nights. This extended the growing season well into October, making even us cool climate lovers bite our nails wondering if we would reach optimal ripeness! We did, and are so happy with the results across the board!

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Vinification

The majority of our 2018 Pinot Noir “Deux” was fermented 50% whole cluster, with the three other smaller ferments experiencing differing levels of whole cluster to promote complexity of flavour. Cap management favoured gentle pigeage with a few light pump-overs to help along the primary fermentation. After primary fermentation the wine was aged in neutral and new French oak barriques and puncheons. Unfiltered and unfined with only two small sulphur additions.