Chris Dearden has been crafting fine wines in Napa Valley for over 35 years. Wine has been a part of his family life since childhood, where it was served regularly at dinner as a celebration of everyday meals. The third generation Californian was born and raised in the San Joaquin Valley town of Porterville and always had an aptitude and love for agriculture and life sciences. His winemaking style is a true expression of the greatness of Carneros.
One of the last true agricultural stands of Napa Valley, the Carneros region harbors a great deal of character amongst its patch work of vineyards, wineries and homes. The Dearden Vineyard is located on a 12-acre parcel on Las Amigas Road in the heart of the Napa-Carneros region of Napa Valley. It is the coolest climate area in the Napa Valley and is the birthplace of some of the finest Chardonnays and Pinot noirs produced anywhere in the world. This vineyard was planted in 2006 and now is just beginning to channel the full flavor and aroma profile that will continue for decades. The clonal selections of Pinot noir are integral to producing a wine of depth, texture and character. These five clones were selected for their ability to craft a single vineyard wine from several distinct clones. Yields on this high quality vineyard average a meager 2 tons per acre. The 5 different clonal plantings are vinified and fermented seperately using native yeasts. They are kept seperate until blending. Only 223 cases produced!
Tasting Notes:
Bright and ripe fruit on the bouquet including cherry, currant and cranberries with almost a candied fruit note and accompanying sweet aromatics. The wine has higher toned red fruits with hints of cedar, mocha and cinnamon stick on the bouquet. Still one can tell this is Pinot Noir – but shows a ripeness both on the bouquet and the palate. Rounded with soft texture, lingers with some darker spices and hints of cedar. Very balanced.