Palate
A medium-sweet wine packs complex aromas and flavors of honey, tropical fruit and caramel
apple. It is bright and silky with acidity that balances the finish.
Growing Conditions
The winter was mild with virtually no bud damage,
and April and May were cooler than the long-term
average with delayed bud break. Although May and
June were very dry, approximately 60% below
average, July was warmer than average, so by the end
of July, accumulated Growing Degree Days (GDD)
were close to average. Even though July rainfall was
20% above average, total rainfall for the growing
season was a scant 14.9 inches, almost half of the total
long-term average. By the end of October,
accumulated GDD were close to the ten-year average.
Disease pressure was virtually absent. The cool nights
during the fall helped to retain acidity and freshness,
while the warm days provided the grapes a sense of
ripeness and balance.
- Elevation: 760-780 feet
- Soil Type: NW 10% Lansing, 90% Lordstown
Harvest
- Harvest Date/Brix: September 15, 2020/ 25.1˚ (V)
- Harvest Date/Brix: October 15, 2020/ 22.2˚ (R)
Bottling
April 30, 2021
Winemaking
Originally named Ravat 51, this grape was thought to be a cross of Seibel and Pinot de Corton, a Pinot Noir clone; however, recent genetic testing revealed that it shares no genetic markers with its ostensible parents. Its origin remains a mystery! Vignoles vines are vigorous and moderately hardy. Producing plenty of clean fruit in small, compact clusters, they age late in the season which protects them against early frost. The grapes have thick skin and can easily hang on the vine until late fall with very sweet juice and solid acidity at maturity.
- Residual Sugar: 6.5%
- Pressing: Whole-cluster pressed
- Fermentation: Fermented in stainless steel tank
Aging
Seven months in stainless steel tank
Appearance
A light straw color
Food Pairing
Vignoles pairs nicely with spicy dishes or meals having a fragrant element and a touch of heat such as Asian or Mexican cuisine or a cheesecake topped with berries.
