2019 St Francis, Pinot Noir Sonoma

ABOUT THE WINE
Established in 1971 by Joe Founder, St. Francis has reflected the finest mountain and valley vineyards in and around Sonoma County for over 50 years.
Today, the vineyards of St. Francis are farmed per Certified Sustainable standards. Their estate vineyards present a stunning diversity as they are scattered around Sonoma Valley and the famous Russian River Valley, each with diverse compositions of limestone, loam, clay and black & red volcanic soils. They also buy fruit from some of the oldest vineyards in the region, farming beautifully gnarly old vine Zinfandel, by nurturing their long-standing relationships for decades.

TASTING NOTES
Fruit for Pinot Noir is sourced from the coolest vineyards including Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast and Bennett Valley, all benefitting from the cool maritime Pacific mist and winds, which helps retain the fresh acidity of the fruit. With these optimal growing conditions, their Pinot Noir is bright and shows crunchy cherry, pomegranate and raspberry notes, supported by strawberry compote and warm oak spice. Aged in 25% new oak barrels for 8 months. The touch of toasted hazelnut and orange peel adds real personality to this Pinot.

FOOD PAIRING
Brilliant with Thanksgiving turkey, rotisserie chicken with creamy polenta or roasted potatoes in duck fat.

FRIARWOOD SAYS
St. Francis’ gorgeous mission-style estate and Tasting Room building is in the heart of the valley surrounded by estate-owned vineyards. Their bell tower, pictured on their labels houses a 1,000-pound bronze bell cast by the Marinelli Foundry in Italy. It chimes every hour and can be heard throughout the valley.