Release Date: Spring 1983

Great Pinot Noir is a scare commodity. Of all the noble grapes it alone presents the greatest challenge to the winegrower. 1980 was one of those very special years when low yields and cool weather dominated, allowing this temperamental variety to reach its full potential. The voluptuous Pinot perfume and incredible flavor authority on the palate give this wine a sense of completeness. Grand Cru standards are very much in evidence, giving added appreciation of the soil and climate. We feel this vintage to be the pinnacle of quality from our forty-year-old estate.

Harvesting commenced in early October, yielding a quarter ton per acre of beautifully small concentrated berries. The grapes were fermented on the stems for two weeks and the wine aged in new François Frères barrels for seventeen months. This wine received a light egg white fining prior to bottling and no filtration.