Winemaker Notes
The 2018 vintage continues de Villiers’ tradition of producing one of the most luxurious and dark-fruited expressions of Pinot Noir from Mt. Harlan. On the nose, dramatic aromas of black cherry, briary blackberry and sarsaparilla immediately command attention. The dark berry flavors continue on the palate, where they are supported by firm, age-worthy tannins that frame the fruit and carry the wine to a
long, lush cherry and spice finish.
Production
The quality of the 2018 growing season on Mt. Harlan was fantastic. After warm early spring weather led to an early budbreak, the temperatures cooled in latespring, followed by sunny days with moderate temperatures throughout the summer. This provided us with long hangtimes, which resulted in exceptional ripeness, while preserving excellent natural acidity in the grapes. The one negative was that the cool early weather during bloom caused a bit of shatter and reduced yields. While the crops were small, the quality was outstanding, producing beautifully complex wines, with lovely structure, and pure, varietal flavors.