# Vintner's Reserve Pinot Noir (2021)

- **Producer:** Kendall-Jackson
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 13–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, vanilla, cedar, toasted bread, tobacco, earth, mushroom

## About this wine

The Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Pinot Noir 2021 is a red wine from California, produced by the family-owned winery Kendall-Jackson. The grapes are sourced from the state's cool, coastal vineyards, specifically mentioning Monterey County for its floral notes and ripe berry character, and Santa Barbara County for its dark cherry qualities. These vineyards are situated on rolling hillsides and mountain tops, contributing to the development of small, intensely flavored grapes. The winemaking process involves keeping vineyard lots separate until the final blend to achieve a harmonious combination of flavors and aromas. Kendall-Jackson is recognized for its pioneering efforts in sustainable winemaking and its commitment to environmental stewardship.

## Interesting facts

- Grapes are grown on benchland hillsides and mountain tops.
- Vineyards are sustainably farmed.
- Aged in 98% French oak barrels.
- 75,000-78,000 cases produced annually.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and bright acidity complement fatty proteins like duck and salmon, cutting through richness. Its earthy notes and subtle spice find harmony with mushrooms and herbs, while its fruit-forward character can stand up to richer meat dishes.

## Wine making process

The Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve Pinot Noir 2021 is produced using grapes from sustainably farmed, cool coastal vineyards in California. A key technique involves keeping individual vineyard lots separate throughout the winemaking process until the final blend is created, allowing for precise control over the wine's final profile. The wine undergoes aging for approximately 9 to 9.5 months in French oak barrels, with 18% of the barrels being new. This aging period contributes to the wine's structure and aroma profile. The grapes are cultivated on benchland rolling hillsides and mountain tops, a practice that yields small, concentrated berries.