2018 Capiaux Starscape Pinot Noir

Russian River

Starscape Vineyard, formerly Floodgate Vineyard, is located in the Northern part of Russian River Valley bordering Mark West Creek within the unofficial sub-region known as Middle Reach. Planted in 1971, these old Martini clone vines are among the oldest known Pinot Noir in Russian River. The effects of annual flooding mark these craggy, thick 49-year old vines yielding less than a ton an acre. I’m so pleased with the unique character and striking quality this old vineyard delivers.

A deep garnet color with a bright rim. Aroma of graphite and wet stones after a Spring rain blending with caramelized dark red fruit. Bright red cherry, raspberry, rhubarb flavors held up with structured tannins.

Vinous/Galloni  93pts

“…pliant, racy and super-expressive. A burst of sweet red cherry and red plum gives the Starscape its forward, juicy personality. There is plenty of energy behind all of that fruit, but the 2018 needs a few years in bottle to be at its most rewarding. The personality of this low-yielding site planted with the Martini clone comes through in the wine’s sheer density and raciness. I love it.” Tasting Date: Sept 2019

Purely Domestic Wine Report/Wilder 92pts

The nose is deep, offering sticky fig, forest floor and date with notes of chocolate. The palate entry is gravelly spiced plum with a core of velvet-like black stone fruit and berries leading to a lean, toasted finish of dry red fruit and spice box. Drink 2020 - 2028

Appellation:    100% Russian River
Vineyard:      100% Starscape
Harvest date:  September 28th               
Brix @ harvest: 25.8
pH:                  3.68
TA (g/1):           6.5
Bottling date:  August 2019
Release date:  Oct 2020
Aging:           French oak (25% new)   11 months       
Alcohol:           14.1
Production:      100 cases