North Slope 2023

The North Slope begins just beyond the South Slope block and continues downhill toward the north. It is planted entirely to Dijon Clone 115, the estate's most fruit-driven Pinot selection and the source of a distinctly generous yet structured expression.

Persistent evening fog and cool nights extend the ripening season. The resulting balance between ripe fruit and natural acidity lets Clone 115 show abundant dark berry character without losing freshness or site definition.

The fruit is 100% estate grown under sustainable practices. Pinot Noir yields are controlled by cluster thinning, generally to 10-15 clusters per vine, and each block receives repeated hands-on canopy and crop work through the growing season.

Fruit is destemmed, sorted and placed as whole berries in open-top fermenters for a cold soak of at least five days. Fermentation lasts 13-16 days with three punch-downs daily. The wine completes malolactic fermentation and ages twelve months in François Frères barrels, 55% new, then at least one year in bottle.

Deep ruby with magenta highlights. Polished leather, ripe cherry, lavender and mossy earth frame a medium-bodied, structured palate with ripe tannins and dark mineral detail. Serve at 14-16°C with duck, mushrooms, pork or roast game birds.