# Irony Pinot Noir (2023)

- **Producer:** Irony Wine Cellars
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir, Petite Sirah
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €12
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 13–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, red cherry, strawberry, vanilla, cloves

## About this wine

Irony Pinot Noir is produced by Irony Wine Cellars, founded by third-generation vintners Jay and Chris Indelicato, whose family winemaking roots extend to 1935. The winery's name is inspired by the brothers' return to the family's winemaking tradition. The grapes are primarily sourced from Monterey County, California, a region known for its cool, dry climate influenced by its coastal location. This specific wine is noted for its nuanced and spicy profile, a distinctive characteristic for its California origin, stemming from thoughtful vineyard management and winemaking.

## Interesting facts

- The winery's name, 'Irony,' reflects the founders' unexpected return to the family winemaking tradition.
- Grapes come from San Bernabe Vineyard, featuring seven distinct blocks with varied soils and clones.
- The winemaking family's history in the industry dates back to 1935.
- Lightweight bottles are used to reduce environmental impact.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and balanced acidity complement richer dishes by cutting through fat and cleansing the palate. Its fruit and spice notes can harmonize with herbs and savory elements in various proteins.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Irony Pinot Noir involves fermentation in stainless steel tanks, a technique chosen to preserve the wine's primary fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging for approximately nine months in French oak barrels. This period in oak allows for the development of structure and subtle complexity. Irony Wine Cellars is committed to sustainability, implementing practices such as low water and energy consumption, eco-friendly pest control, recycling, and fostering natural habitats at their vineyards. They also utilize lightweight bottles as part of their environmental consciousness.