2021 Gun Bun Pinot Noir

The 2021 Gundlach Bundschu Pinot Noir from the Green Valley of Russian River Valley in Sonoma County exemplifies the winery’s dedication to producing expressive, terroir-driven wines.

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: Enticing scents reminiscent of a California redwood forest floor, complemented by notes of shiitake mushroom.
• Flavors: A harmonious blend of brandied cherry and blackberry pie, with underlying earthy tones and a hint of vanilla.
• Texture: Medium-bodied with a structured profile, offering a balanced acidity and a lingering finish.

Food Pairings

This Pinot Noir’s complexity and balanced profile make it a versatile companion for various dishes. Consider pairing it with:

• Poultry: Herb-roasted chicken or duck breast with a cherry glaze.
• Mushroom Dishes: Wild mushroom risotto or a savory mushroom tart.
• Pork: Grilled pork tenderloin accompanied by a cranberry reduction.
• Cheeses: Aged Gouda or creamy Brie.

Vineyard Technical Specifications

• Appellation: Green Valley of Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California.
• Vineyard Source: Ross Station vineyard, situated on a raised bench in the heart of Green Valley, characterized by cool climate conditions with average daytime lows in the 40s and highs in the mid-70s.
• Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture with a focus on minimal intervention to allow the vineyard’s unique terroir to express itself fully.
• Harvest: Hand-harvested in the cool morning hours to preserve fruit integrity and freshness.
• Fermentation: Utilized indigenous and RC212 yeast strains, with indigenous malolactic fermentation to enhance complexity.
• Aging: Aged for 14 months in 100% French oak barrels, with 40% being new oak, imparting subtle spice and enhancing the wine’s structure.
• Alcohol Content: 14.2% by volume.
• pH Level: 3.53.
• Total Acidity: 6.5 g/L.
• Production: Limited to 495 cases, highlighting the wine’s exclusivity.

The 2021 vintage was marked by low yields due to drought conditions, resulting in wines of exceptional concentration and depth. This Pinot Noir reflects the unique terroir of the Green Valley, offering a rich and complex profile that is both food-friendly and age-worthy.