Pinot Noir Route 116, Sonoma Coast – 2018
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Introduction
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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 Winemaker to be approachable and a reliable favorite.
Route 116
Route 116 meanders through the Sonoma Coast appellation. Originating near the town of Sonoma and ending at Hwy 1 near Jenner, a drive on Route 116 will show you many of the best Pinot Noir vineyards in this area.
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Vineyard Profile
- Appellation: Sonoma Coast
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Vintage Report
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2018 was a great growing season on the Sonoma Coast, especially for Pinot Noir, with a very consistent ripening curve. Grapes grow best when the rate of sugar accumulation is consistent with the physiological ripening (days on the vine) and 2018 was just that. This is the fourth vintage in a row with consistent vineyard sourcing, one from the Southern Sonoma Coast that is more influenced by San Pablo Bay than the Pacific and the other vineyard much more Northern and Western and heavily influenced by the ocean. Coolness is required to make expressive Pinot Noir and that is what we have in our two sites along with a beautiful array of different clones (Pommard, 777 and 667).
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Vinification
- Barrel Aging: Aged in 100% French oak for a total of 10 months. 10% of the barrels were new.
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir: 31% Pommard Clone, 40% Clone 667 and 29% Clone 777
- Alcohol: 14.1%
- TA: 6.0 g/L
- p H: 3.54
- RS: Dry
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Tasting Notes
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The nose jumps right out of the glass with classic Pinot Noir aromas of strawberry, shiitake mushrooms, bay laurel and soy. The savory characters of the aroma go straight to the pallet with an amazing combination of that savory and the sweet red fruit characters. There is just enough very high-quality French oak to weave these two amazing characters together. The beautiful silky texture of the wine makes a mouthfeel that is at first expansive and then bright, crisp and inviting you back for another sip. A long lingering aftertaste is highlighted by orange peel, rosemary and toasted hazelnuts.
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Images
Reviews
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Routestock Pinot Noir Route 116, Sonoma Coast – 2018 – The Tasting Panel – 90 Points
Smooth, fresh and earthy with bright cherry and lively spice; silky texture, crisp acidity and a long finish.
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Routestock Pinot Noir Route 116, Sonoma Coast – 2018 – Wine Spectator – 91 Points
Svelte, with a crisp minerally composure to the dried raspberry and berry flavors that are well-structured. Finish offers notes of forest floor, with floral accents. Drink now through 2024. 4,380 cases made.
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Routestock Pinot Noir Route 116, Sonoma Coast – 2018 – Wine Enthusiast – 90 Points
A wealth of savory earthiness is met by layers of balanced black cherry, wood and sage in this well-made, attractively priced wine. The oak and tannin are well mannered and integrated, allowing room for the acidity and subtle baking spice to linger.