ARNOT-ROBERTS PINOT NOIR FOX CREEK VINEYARD CARMEL VALLEY 2023

Arnot-Roberts, founded by childhood friends Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts in 2001, continues their pursuit of distinctive terroir expression through their Fox Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir. Perched at an elevation of 1,100 feet on a remote ridge above Monterey County's Carmel Valley, this exceptional site benefits from its distinctive maritime influence despite its altitude. Planted in 2006 to Dijon clones 667 and 115, the vineyard's well-drained granodiorite-studded clay loam soil provides optimal growing conditions for Pinot Noir. The unique Musick Series soil composition, coupled with organic farming practices, allows these vines to develop deep root systems that translate the site's mineral complexity directly into the wine. The vineyard's proximity to the Pacific Ocean creates a long, cool growing season that allows for gradual ripening while maintaining crucial natural acidity.

Arnot-Roberts Fox Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir captures the essence of this coastal mountainous terroir with remarkable precision. The wine showcases soaring aromatics of wild berries and coastal herbs, infused with a distinctive saline quality that speaks to the oceanic influence. On the palate, the wine reveals concentrated yet crystalline flavors that combine bright red fruit with subtle earthy undertones. The meticulous farming produces tiny, compact clusters that deliver intensity without heaviness, allowing for complex flavor development at moderate alcohol levels. The wine's vibrant acidity provides tension and energy, while fine-grained tannins create an elegant structure that frames the pure varietal expression. This bottling exemplifies Arnot-Roberts' commitment to highlighting California's extraordinary viticultural diversity through minimal intervention winemaking.