Donum Estate Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2022
(Carneros, California) - [DM 94] [JS 94] [WS 91]

The Carneros Pinot Noir is our flagship wine made every vintage since Donum’s inception in 2001. Blended from vineyard blocks spanning the Estate, the blend is carefully assembled using only barrels that meet our rigorous quality standards. The grapes are organically grown, and fermentation uses yeast native to the Estate. Each block is harvested and fermented separately and then aged for 16 months in French oak barrels. In the last month, we select the barrels that best represent the terroir of the Estate and the Carneros region for the final blend.

WINEMAKER NOTES

Bright ruby in color, the nose on the Carneros Pinot Noir opens with a waft of toasted oak at the early stage, giving way to notes of blackberry and cherry along with sassafras and flint. The palate echoes the spicy, dark fruit from the nose, with bright raspberry and an earthy, clay-like note. Beautifully balanced between fruit and spice, the finish lingers with smooth, rich tannins. Drink from 2024-2030.

FRUIT: Swan, Mt. Eden, Pommard, Calera, Dijon 667, Martini

HARVEST DATE: August 16- September 22, 2022

ESTATE BOTTLED: February 26, 2024

CASES PRODUCED: 1,703

AGING: 16 months in 60% French oak

94 Points - Decanter Magazine:
"Donum's 2022 Single Vineyard Carneros Estate Pinot Noir is a darker, more muscular and brooding expression from Carneros, showcasing the full power and extraction possible from the region. Hints of tobacco, leather, and spice complement vivid notes of dried Bing cherry and raspberry liqueur. Full-bodied with plush boysenberry and dark cherry fruits, framed by sappy tannins and a complex array of dried herbs, black tea, and blood orange. Rich and stylish. Blocks are harvested and fermented separately, then aged for 16 months in 60% new French oak barrels." - Jonathan Cristaldi (Oct 2024)

94 Points - James Suckling:
"Aromas of plums and berries with hints of flowers. Medium-bodied, creamy and refined, with balance and focus. Bright and vivid. Why hold this? Drink now."  (Jun 2024)

91 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Offers a good mix of steeped red and black cherry fruit mixed with singed mesquite, baking spice and black tea notes. A sanguine echo filters through on the finish, with the toasty edge keeping the upper hand. Drink now through 2031." - James Molesworth (Dec 2024)