Decoy California Pinot Noir

Established in 1985, Decoy is a winery known for producing wines from notable vineyard sources. These sources include Decoy’s own Ridgeline and Brownell estate vineyards, situated in the Alexander Valley of Sonoma County. The winemaking operations at Decoy are overseen by the acclaimed Winemaker Dana Epperson. In 2020, Decoy expanded its offerings with the introduction of Decoy Limited, a selection of limited-production wines crafted from distinctive lots sourced from California's most prestigious wine regions.

This particular wine is a 2021 vintage, composed entirely of 100% Pinot Noir grapes from California appellations. The growing season was characterized by minimal winter rains and a mild spring, leading to drought conditions. Vineyard practices were adapted to ensure balanced crop loads. Budbreak in the North Coast vineyards occurred approximately two weeks ahead of the cooler Central Coast, resulting in harvest concluding on October 15th in the North Coast and November 6th on the Central Coast. Both regions experienced smaller-than-average berries and clusters, which led to lower yields but resulted in deeply concentrated flavors, aromas, and textures. It was aged for 12 months in 100% French oak, with 35% new and 65% neutral barrels.

The Decoy Pinot Noir presents a lush and alluring profile. The aroma offers notes of black cherry, wild strawberry, red currant, black tea, and sage, complemented by rustic hints of earthy forest floor. On the palate, the wine delivers generous ripe berry flavors, balanced by bright acidity and refined tannins, culminating in a long, silky finish. The overall quality of the 2021 vintage is considered exceptional, exhibiting lovely balance, excellent natural acidity, and bright, juicy flavors.