EMERITUS, WILLIAM WESLEY PINOT NOIR

The steep coastal hillsides of William Wesley Vineyard are influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, with daytime breezes that ride above the coastal ridges and fog-shrouded valleys below. Very cool nights permit the grapes to retain their acids and give way to long, bright, sunny days that allow the grapes to ripen slowly in near-perfect balance, intensifying their flavors, and reflecting the vineyard's maritime terroir in this powerful cuvée.

VINTAGE NOTES
The 2007 growing season on the Sonoma Coast provided near-perfect conditions for Pinot Noir. Spring saw no frost visiting the vineyards and warm daytime temperatures from summer into fall gently ripened the grapes. The grapes were picked with their fruit flavors still youthful and alive.

William Wesley Vineyard’s soil composition of Goldridge soils with a sandstone base has a low water retention capacity that creates competition for water and nutrients among the vines. Stressed vines bear small-berried clusters that produce concentrated juice with intense flavors and higher tannins resulting in a wine suited to long-term aging.

WINEMAKER’S TASTING NOTES
The 2007 William Wesley is the finest expression of Sonoma Coast mountain–fruit terroir. Our coastal vineyards promote high acidity, flavor intensity and structure in a lush, dense wine. On the palate, the William Wesley cuvée has dark fruit characteristics with blackberry flavors and licorice nuances, yet still displays the charm and elegance that defines Emeritus Pinot Noir. The wine is youthful with vibrant acidity and round tannins—which favor its aging capability.

— Nicolas Cantacuzene