The Seeker Pinot Noir (France) 22

These Pinot Noir grapes were discovered in two ideal regions of France, Puy de Dme and Mediterranee. Both feature vines 15-40 years old in high-altitude vineyard sites near the 45th parallel. Hot days and cold nights bestow delicacy and finesse, as in Burgundy. Master Blender Jean-Pierre Rodet rejected hundreds of lots to find the perfect grapes to craft this luscious Pinot Noir. Grapes are destemmed before undergoing a cold maceration at 43 - 46F for 5-7 days to extract delicate fruit notes, very unusual for a non-AOC wine. Fermentation occurs in open-top barrels for a long 15-20 days, followed by malolactic fermentation and maturation in tank on light lees. This wines bright, fruity character is preserved by the absence of oak.