2012 Mara Pinot Noir (Laughlin)
Picked on Monday September 10, 2012, in the wee hours of the morning so we can capture the coolness of the russian river valley fog.
The handpicked Martinelli Pinot Noir was delivered in 1/2 ton macro-bins to the winery and processed almost immediately upon arrival.
Crushed 80% whole berry, we had a 5 day cold soak, which allowed the fermentation to start spontaneously.
Then about 1/2 way through fermentation the natural yeast began a steady and slow finish of the fermentation.
We pressed at 0 brix and at about 1 1/2 atmosphere in the press to make sure the wine would be soft and rich without any bitter tannins.
After that we went to barrel hot and dirty. This allows for better integration with the barrels.
Battonage took place for 5 months and a use of 30% new french 3 year old air dried barrels were used.
After that the traditional aging of the russian river valley pinot noir is the end product.
All of Mara Pinot Noir's can use an extra 2 to 3 years of additional aging. ENJOY!