From the Winery

“If there’s one thing that can be said for the 2020 growing season, it’s that it was anything but dull. A lack of winter rain led to our first ever winter irrigations, which helped manage our water deficit. Frost in late March decreased yields, however, this increased the concentration of flavor in the fruit. We also had a very unusual late spring hailstorm, although it was not severe enough to damage the vines. The summer progressed quite nicely with even weather for ripening. It looked like we were set up for a perfect vintage until an August heatwave hit with accompanying lightning that set off wildfires across California. To avoid smoke damage, we began harvesting immediately and nearly completed our harvest within just a few days. The resulting wines are therefore a little bit lighter than usual, but with plenty of bright fruit and wonderful concentration.”

Vineyard Notes

The Nugent vineyard was planted in 1997 and features three distinct clones of pinot noir: Calera, Pommard, and Dijon 667, each of which brings unique elements to the Stemmler Pinot Noir. Each vineyard block is hand-harvested early in the morning, sorted, and fermented separately in stainless steel tank, undergoing a five-day cold soak before primary fermentation. During fermentation the cap is punched down two to three times per day, and the wine is pressed as soon as it is dry. The wine then undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrel—all French oak, about 15% new—and then ages on its lees for 10 months. We taste through all the barrels and select the best, blending these to make our Nugent Vineyard Pinot Noir.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Nugent Pinot is ruby to purple in color, with complete saturation. The nose shows aromas of black cherry, blackberry, flint, and Asian spice. On the palate dark berry flavors dominate, with a undertones of vanilla, grilled bread, and briar. The long finish is elevated, with beautiful balanced and freshness.