# Buena Vista Carneros Pinot Noir (2020)

- **Producer:** Buena Vista Winery
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, red cherry, strawberry, cloves, vanilla, mushroom, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

The Buena Vista Carneros Pinot Noir 2020 is a red wine from the Carneros AVA in Napa Valley, California. Carneros is recognized for its cool, maritime-influenced climate, which is particularly suited for Pinot Noir, contributing to the wine's finesse and elegance. Buena Vista Winery, founded in 1857 by Agoston Haraszthy, is California's oldest premium winery and has a long history of pioneering viticultural practices. The 2020 vintage reflects the warm and dry conditions of that year, often resulting in concentrated fruit and structure. The winery is now owned by the Boisset family, continuing its legacy.

## Interesting facts

- Buena Vista is California's oldest premium winery, established in 1857.
- Carneros AVA is known for its fog and cool breezes from the San Pablo Bay.
- Agoston Haraszthy, the founder, is considered the 'Father of California Viticulture'.
- The winery has been instrumental in introducing European grape varietals to California.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and balanced acidity complement richer proteins like duck and pork, while its fruit notes harmonize with savory herbs and earthy mushrooms. The wine's structure can stand up to flavorful sauces without overpowering delicate fish.

## Wine making process

The Buena Vista Carneros Pinot Noir 2020 is produced from grapes sourced from the Carneros AVA. Winemaking typically involves fermentation in small open-top fermenters, which allows for controlled extraction. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging in French and Hungarian oak barrels, with a proportion of new oak used to impart subtle complexity. Buena Vista Winery has a historical commitment to pioneering viticultural practices, including dry farming and hillside planting, reflecting a long-standing approach to vineyard management.