Our Bench Lands is a blended Pinot Noir utilizing fruit from several different vineyards, all growing along benches of the Umpqua River. Within these vineyards we have selected blocks and clonal types that work well together in this harmonious blend. These soils are very diverse mixes of alluvium deposited along the Umpqua, originating in the three mountain ranges that encircle this river valley, the Klamath-Siskiyous, the Cascades and the Coast Range. These are well drained sandy and gravelly soils.
From these sites we get a stylish wine with pretty, approachable tannins, even in youth. The wine is a deep garnet in color with aromas that are a heady combination of red and blue fruits, dark skinned cherries, blueberries and raspberry. There is a pleasing element of toast and spice that complements the fruit aromas. The flavors combine these fruit characters with a bit of warm oak spice and a mouth-filling impression of skin tannins, well integrated with the fruit and the overall suppleness of the wine. The acidity keeps the wine fresh and appealing for a pleasing experience for your senses that lingers on and on. Overall the fruit and tannins are ideal to compliment grilled salmon and enough backbone to stand up to BBQed ribs. Production: 2500 cases. Alcohol: 14.2%ABV. Total Acidity: 5.6g/L. pH: 3.66