2019 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 50-year-old vines yielding less than a ton an acre. The soil type is Laniger loam, typically found in flood plains, with a Yolo loam over-wash. I’m so pleased with the unique character and striking quality this old vineyard delivers.
Medium to dark red-purple color and a strong purple hue. Spicey aromas of cinnamon, white pepper and orange zest. Deeper flavors of caramel, mixed apple and berry pie. Stronger tannins will allow this wine to age for years.
Reviews:
Vinous/Galloni 93pts
“…is rich, pliant and distinctive. Succulent cherry, red plum and cinnamon and cedar fill out the layers beautifully in this racy, mid-weight Pinot from Sean Capiaux. I would give the tannins a year or two to soften, as the Starscape is not quite as open as it could be or will be. Time in the glass brings out striking floral top notes to round things out.” Drinking Window: 2022-2031 Tasting Date: Sept 2020
Wine Advocate/Parker 94+pts
“…martini clone vines more than 60 years old and was aged 11 months in 35% new French oak. Medium ruby, it is deeply scented of baked blackberries, rhubarb and cranberry sauce with accents of star anise, dust, blood orange and potpourri. The palate is packed to the gills with spicy fruits, and it finishes long with classy oak spice. It’s a big, bold style with potential to improve in the cellar over the next 3-5 years.” Drinking Window 2021-2030 Tasting Date: June 2021
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