By Starmont Winery and Vineyards
2016 Pinot Noir Toyon Farm

Technical Details
AVA: Carneros
Vineyard: Toyon Farm
Blend: 100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 14.10%
TA: 5.24 g/L
pH: 3.85

Producer Notes
Since Starmont first appeared on a label in 1989, the name has been recognized for classically styled varietal wines that are expressive and approachable. Now, nearly 30 years later, led by Winemaker Jeff Crawford, Starmont is producing some of their best wines as part of the Merryvale Family of Wines.

Winemaking
Hand-picked at Toyon Farm in Carneros on September 5th, these grapes were carefully sorted in the field and at the winery. After a three to five-day cold soak, the wine underwent native fermentation in a combination of open-top and puncheon fermenters. Punch-downs were performed twice daily. Fermentation lasted six to nine days with a three- to six-day extended maceration for 15 days on skins before pressing. This wine was aged in 100% French oak barrels, 29% new. Careful attention was taken to match oak and toast to the vineyard and wine traits - restrained to push the fruit's character forward and respect the vineyard site. Comprised of the Dijon clone. The wine was bottled without fining.

Tasting Notes
The Toyon Farms single-vineyard Pinot Noir is another beautiful example of Carneros Pinot Noir. All the Starmont single-vineyard Pinots are made within three square miles of one another, yet each brings a unique expression based on the specific site and clonal material. This wine is made of a Dijon clone and brings a light and appealing aspect to the Pinot Noir lineup.
[Information provided by Miller Squared]