Shirah Pinot Meunier 2021

Our first experience working with this variety, Pinot Meunier, marks an exciting venture into the Pinot family. What sets it apart from Pinot Noir is the silvery hair-like surface found on the underside of its grape leaves. This distinct feature is attributed to its status as a chimeric mutation, wherein part of the berry shares most of its DNA with Pinot Noir, while its skin possesses different genetic material.

In both the vineyard and the cellar, Pinot Meunier behaves similarly to Pinot Noir. However, its cultivation is primarily associated with Champagne, where it plays a crucial role in enhancing body and fruitiness. Despite being less common outside of Champagne, it has been crafted into well-received dry red wines, marking our inaugural attempt with this varietal.

For aficionados of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier offers a sense of familiarity with its elegant aromatics, balanced acidity, and gentle, graceful palate presence.

Winemaker Notes

Varietal: 100% Pinot Meunier

Vineyard: Riverbench

Regions: Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, CA

Bottle Size: 750ml

New Release TN’s:

Date Tasted: May, 2024

Color: ruby red

Nose: feminine, floral, warm spice, crushed rock, wild strawberry, fennel frond, blood orange

Mouth: soft and balanced acidity, velvety density, pomegranate, orange blossom honey

Decant for: 1 hour

Pair with: lamb street food (tacos, burgers, kabobs)

Drinkability: Drink now through 2030