California producer Sonoma-Cutrer has announced the arrival of their 2023 Rosé of Pinot Noir.
“Although harvest 2023 got off to a late start, it produced exceptional results,” says director of winemaking, Cara Morrison. “We’re thrilled to introduce another vintage of our fantastic Rosé of Pinot Noir ahead of the spring and summer season.”
As with prior rosé vintages, the fruit was specifically grown and harvested to produce this wine. Clusters were destemmed and pressed leaving the juice in direct contact with the skins for a short period of time to achieve the pale pink color. Immediately afterwards, grapes were pressed to obtain the juice.
Each batch of rosé was fermented separately in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures. After fermentation, the rosé batches were blended together and prepared for bottling in early March.
“A bit of a heatwave in early October with no rain or frost in sight pushed the maturity of the grapes to perfect ripeness,” says senior winemaker Zidanelia Arcidiacono. “This new vintage of our Rosé of Pinot Noir is a beautiful and delicate example of why Russian River Valley Pinot Noir makes a great rosé.”
The result is aromas of tangerine, blood orange, wild strawberry, raspberry, a light touch of watermelon and hibiscus flower, according to winery notes. On the palate is fresh fruit flavors of red berry fruit and a sea salt minerality that leads to a juicy and tangy finish.
Made from 100% pinot noir, this rosé has an ABV of 11.9%. It is available for purchase in select locations nationwide and on the Sonoma-Cutrer website for a suggested retail price of $19.99 per 750-ml. bottle.
Sonoma-Cutrer was sold by Brown-Forman to The Duckhorn Portfolio late last year.