The 2023 growing season began cold leading to a bud break that was 3-4 weeks later than average. But a very wet early spring followed by a May that felt more like summer sent the vines off on a running start, and by the time they were in bloom, the phenology had caught up to the five-year average. Some rain and hail in the third week of June rinsed off the canopy, but with most vineyards through bloom, little damage was sustained. After that, the summer was warm and dry, leading to a surprise early and compressed harvest, beginning in late August and all fruit in the door by mid-October.
The 2023 Pinot blanc was harvested on September 24 from the higher elevation blocks in the Amity Estate vineyard. It was gently macerated through filling the press, and then held for two hours of skin contact before pressing. It was fermented and aged in stainless steel, allowing the fruit to shine through. The finished wine carries fresh floral and citrus notes with delicate but present texture.
143 cases were packaged on April Fools Day, 2024.