What's Open Owen? - February '21 Edition

February is always full of positivity, love and warmth from within. It's really the only way to get though a Chicago winter. Winter weather, in general, tends to pair well with red wine. This post is a great contrast to my previous post on red Burgundy.

Here's What's Currently Open:

2017 DuMOL Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley in Sonoma County

Pinot Noir from the United States has truly captured the eyes of the world in terms of quality and style. It is always evolving, especially in where it can be grown. While a finicky grape, It has become famous from California to Oregon, but can also thrive in regions like the Finger Lakes in upstate New York.

In general, pinot from California tends to rely on its fruit flavor profiles such as red cherry or red raspberry as well as its oak. In contrast, old world pinot noirs rely on their earthy and mineral notes. For reference, oak used during the production of wine imparts certain flavors favored by American winemakers such as vanilla and baking spices.

This particular wine comes from vines that are 33 years old which would put it into the category of "old vine" pinot noir. The vintners at DuMOL created an elegant, silky, well-balanced bottle that is made for sipping. It has been aged in 40% light/medium toast new french oak barrels for 12 months, followed by 3 more months in tank.

The notes are of both red and blue fruit flavors followed by a silky smooth finish. There is an finish of wood and forest floor along with a well balanced acidity and lighter tannins.

To be honest, calling this wine sipping wine doesn't even begin to do it justice. I had this wine fireside on a quiet evening next to two large sleeping dogs in the dead of winter. In simple terms, this wine is just delicious. No need to pair with food as this wine shines on its own in all of its glory. In the word of the vintner himself, Andy Smith, "The wine is dynamic, alive and precise".

Have any questions or comments? Don't be afraid to reach out!

Cheers,

Owen