Wine Article
2021 The Eyrie Vineyards Pinot Gris Estate
Last edited on 5/1/2024 by LindsayM
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THE VINIFICATION
Eyrie pioneered the variety in the New World and the New World's oldest vines contribute to this cuvée. We take a slow approach-our Pinot gris ages 3-4 times longer than most commercial versions, on its natural yeast lees and in the company of full malolactic. The result is textural suppleness to complement the acidity, and a surprising ability to age. (Recent tastings of 1977, 1983, 1989, and 1991 all continue to show amazing freshness.)
THE VINTAGE
The weather pattern of 2021 was determined by warmer than normal temps and long dry spells punctuated by short rains. Bud break occurred in early April, a few weeks ahead of schedule, and the vines stayed ahead of schedule from there on out.
Mixed rains and heat spikes in June decreased yields, while July and August stayed warm and dry. Early September introduced a change in temperature pattern that brought balance to the vintage. Low night-time temperatures preserved the fragile acidity of the grapes, and cool mornings allowed the sugars to rise slowly while flavors developed. Picking commenced on September 10th and concluded October 1.
The 2021 wines taste dynamic and interesting already, a true reflection of the year.
appellation: Dundee Hills
Eyrie pioneered the variety in the New World and the New World's oldest vines contribute to this cuvée. We take a slow approach-our Pinot gris ages 3-4 times longer than most commercial versions, on its natural yeast lees and in the company of full malolactic. The result is textural suppleness to complement the acidity, and a surprising ability to age. (Recent tastings of 1977, 1983, 1989, and 1991 all continue to show amazing freshness.)
THE VINTAGE
The weather pattern of 2021 was determined by warmer than normal temps and long dry spells punctuated by short rains. Bud break occurred in early April, a few weeks ahead of schedule, and the vines stayed ahead of schedule from there on out.
Mixed rains and heat spikes in June decreased yields, while July and August stayed warm and dry. Early September introduced a change in temperature pattern that brought balance to the vintage. Low night-time temperatures preserved the fragile acidity of the grapes, and cool mornings allowed the sugars to rise slowly while flavors developed. Picking commenced on September 10th and concluded October 1.
The 2021 wines taste dynamic and interesting already, a true reflection of the year.
appellation: Dundee Hills