2010 Chamisal (Domaine Alfred) Pinot Noir

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$29.99 (retail) Wine Club pricing reflected in receipt

Chamisal, named after the fragrance Chamise (a native white-flowered shrub that thrived on the estate) was the first vineyard ever planted in Edna Valley back in 1973. Several years after the vineyard was planted it went dormant until being purchased in the early 1990’s.  At that time the visionary who recognized its great potential also saw the need for a new name which became “Domaine Alfred.”  Domaine Alfred was the premier winery coming out of Edna Valley (Carpe Vino carried several different wines) which is why they looked like a perfect fit for the Crimson Wine Group whom acquired them in 2008.  CWG is a small yet powerful portfolio which includes wineries such as Pine Ridge, Archery Summit and Seghesio Family Vineyards.   They produce 260,000 cases through their seven wineries which unbelievably is only 0.1% of California’s production!

We picked this wine because it is an outstanding value for the price.  The Wine Advocate  found it to be delightful as well awarding the wine 90 Points and priced at $38/bottle (wc members…check your receipts ).

“Wine Advocate” Tasting Notes:

A pretty, gracious wine, the 2010 Pinot Noir shows the more elegant, feminine side of Pinot. Crushed flowers and red berries are some of the nuances that take shape in the glass. Despite its mid-weight personality, there is no shortage of depth in the aromas and flavors. This is a gorgeous wine. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016.
Winery Tasting Notes:

The wine boasts an expressive nose dominated by cranberry, raspberries and red plum, with ample underlying varietal notes of ripe stems, warm spice and earth. Bright red fruit flavors define the palate with fresh acidity, a seamless structure and a lifted strawberry character from the whole cluster fermentation.

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