Wine Specs
Vintage
2023
Varietal
Pinot Noir
Appellation
Carneros
Acid
0.58g/100mls
pH
3.67
Alcohol %
14.5
2023 The Famous Gate Pinot Noir
In Stock
Through this wine, one can trace the history of Pinot Noir at Domaine Carneros. In 1992, we made our first two barrels and called it The Famous Gate in honor of the antique iron gate which stands at the entrance to Domaine Carneros, a gift from the Taittinger family. For the past thirty years, we have carefully cultivated three old-vine blocks of the historic Swan selection of Pinot Noir. Each small block is located at a different vineyard; two are in Napa, and one on the western Sonoma side of Carneros. In this wine, Swan takes center stage, with two supporting characters – “Hanzell” selection and “Dijon 115” to create the highest expression of our estate-grown Carneros terroir.
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
The 2023 Famous Gate Pinot Noir opens with enticing aromas of baked cherry, warm spice, bergamot and rose petal. On the palate, there is densely layered red fruits including sweet cranberry and raspberry intertwined with cocoa powder. Evidence of whole cluster fermentation is noted in the delicate spices that punctuate the soft tannins, leading to a long, smooth finish. This wine sees extended aging of 16 months, which lends soft tannins and warm savory spice. While poised and delicious to drink now, the impeccable
balance, bright acidity, and persistence of the palate provide evidence for graceful aging.
Vineyard Notes
We began the 2023 growing season with replenished reservoirs and saturated soils due to a tremendous 40” of rainfall after years of drought. The combination of record rainfall and a cool summer climate allowed for extended hang time and yielded a significant crop. Harvest of the Pinot Noir destined for our still wines began on September 19th and continued at a slow and steady pace through mid-October, allowing for extended flavor development in the berries. The 2023 vintage with its stellar growing conditions and abundant yields resulted in beautifully crafted wines to celebrate for years to come.
Winemaker Notes
100% Estate Grown Pinot Noir. 16 Months Barrel Aged in French oak, 45% new. Clones: 80% Swan, 13% Hanzell, 8% Dijon 115
Food Pairing Notes
Our winemaker TJ Evans recommends pairing this exquisite wine with equally interesting dishes such as Moroccan lamb tagine with orange and ras el hanout, beef bourguignon, or fig and prosciutto pizza with caramelized onions.
Wine Specs
Vintage
2023
Varietal
Pinot Noir
Appellation
Carneros
Acid
0.58g/100mls
pH
3.67
Alcohol %
14.5