94POINTS
17½/20
Martin's Lane Naramata Ranch Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaPinot noir was first planted at Naramata Ranch in 2008, with several blocks added over the next decade at different elevations, up to 545 meters, and various expositions. It is a fantastic mix of sites and mesoclimates. Depending on the plots' proximity to Okanagan Lake, they give winemaker Shane Munn a virtual playground of single blocks to choose from, should he deem it worthy. Several clones are in the ground: Pommard, 943, 828 and 667, but in 2019 the selection was predominantly clone 943 with some 667. At 1350 growing degree days and 13 percent alcohol, Naramata Ranch is the most excellent pinot noir site in the Martin’s Lane lineup. The mid-valley pinot comes with a rich structure. Munn says it is akin to a supercharged gamay noir. The clones are cofermented in concrete with 50 percent whole bunches over 32 days, and spend 17 months in extra-tight grain Austrian oak. I like the bold, floral, spicy black cherry, licorice, and spice that give way to a graceful, pure pinot tone in the finish. Elegance and complexity all in one.Tasted: 21 December 2022Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:BC | $100.00 | 750ml | winery online/direct |
Grape: Pinot NoirCSPC: 051116UPC: 776545993830