Barrel Tasting

The Mahonia Vineyard team visited 12th and Maple Wine Co. on January 14 to taste the 2009 Chardonnay, 2009 Pinot Gris, and the much anticipated 2008 Reserve Pinot Noir, our first wine to be aged in Hungarian oak which imparts a unique spicy character. 
 
2009 Chardonnay
The 2009 Chardonnay has finished a long, slow primary fermentation in 25% stainless steel barrels and 75% neutral oak.  Using a higher percentage of neutral oak with frequent lees stirring has led to a softer, rounder mouthfeel while retaining the effusive tropical fruit, apple, and pear aromas characteristic of Mahonia Vineyard. 

2009 Pinot Gris
The 2009 Pinot Gris was fermented in 70% stainless steel and 30% neutral oak and is now resting in barrel on the lees.  Barrel fermentation and aging on the lees combined with the crisp minerality characteristic of Mahonia Pinot Gris has led to a balanced food-friendly wine with aromas of citrus, lime, apricot, and orangeblossom.  We can't wait to share this wine with you!    

2008 Reserve Pinot Noir
After nearly 18 months in 50% Hungarian oak, the 2008 Reserve Pinot Noir is ready to be bottled.  This wine is deep ruby in color and shows intense aromas of black raspberry and plum, with a hint of smoke imparted by the Hungarian oak.  This will be a truly unique offering and we hope you'll enjoy comparing the influences of the two winemakers who crafted the 2008 Pinot Noir (Russ Rainey of Evesham Wood) and this 2008 Reserve Pinot Noir (Aaron Hess of 12th and Maple Wine Company).

(In picture: Ferenc Ipacs-Szabo, Mahonia Vineyard Manager, and Aron Hess, winemaker at 12th and Maple Wine Co. checking out the 2009 Pinot Gris.)