2014 Routestock Pinot Noir Route 99W, Willamette Valley

RouteStock creates wines from classic grape varieties grown along well-known routes in the world’s most respected wine regions. Tried, trusted and true to their routes, these wines are handcrafted by our winemakers to be approachable and a reliable favorite.

Route 99W

Established in 1930, Route 99W is part of the Pacific Coast Highway which travels north/south through some of Willamette Valley’s most notable vineyards. On a drive down Route 99W, you will pass many of the vineyards that supplied perfectly ripe grapes for this Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.

Vintage Report

The season started with a warm spring and early budbreak. From that point, the growing season remained warm and dry, indicating harvest would be early and uneventful. All went as planned until the last week in September, when the tail end of a Japanese typhoon dropped close to six inches of rain on the valley and completely saturated the vineyards. This is when it got interesting! Having seen many wet vintages in Oregon, Ponzi Vineyards had some ideas on how to handle it — using helicopters to dry the vines, multiple picking passes, extensive sorting before destemming and very careful winemaking among other methods. October saved the grapes with three long weeks of dry, breezy days allowing the fruit left on the vines to reach optimum flavor without any dilution from rain. In the end, the white wines, which were mostly picked before the rain, show the traits of a warmer vintage with lush fruit to balance the vibrant acidity.

Vinification

Barrel Aging: 6 months (68% in neutral barrels up to 4 years old, 20% in new French oak from various coopers, and 12% in 1-year-old barrels)

Tasting Notes

The nose shows aromas of clove, caramel, cocoa and sandalwood that mingle with the savory notes of thyme, lilac and paprika. The mouth is bright with fresh strawberry, raspberry, hints of vanilla and cherry cola. The mid-palate is soft while the finish is long and lively with juicy acidity. – Luisa Ponzi, Winemaker

Technical Information

Production: 5,618 cases (12/750ml)

Alcohol: 13.13%