Chamisal Vineyards Profile
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THIS WINERY WAS FORMERLY KNOWN AS DOMAINE ALFRED |
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1998
Pinot Noir, Califa
Varietal/Style: Pinot Noir
Origin: Edna Valley, CA
Vintage: 1998
Winemaker:
Steven Ross Dooley
Rating: 13/20
Retail Price: $42
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Tasting
Notes: The inaugural release of
this vineyard-designate Pinot, Califa offers a spicy nose
of cedar, mint and a bit of cherry candy. Its medium body
leads the way to a somewhat burnt, but lengthy finish. A well-balanced
wine, this Pinot Noir lacks panache. There's no excitement or drive,
just good fruit and textbook winemaking. While these elements
garner respect, we're waiting for a "wow." (Date tasted 01/28/01)
We
retasted the wine several years after the original tasting
and appreciated it even more, another proof that time improves
good wine. (Date tasted 12/03/05)
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Profile:
A relative newcomer to the California wine scene, Chamisal Vineyards (formerly called Domaine Alfred) demonstrates a passion for the Burgundian varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The winery’s namesake vineyard has the distinction of being the oldest in San Luis Obispo's Edna Valley, having been first planted in 1973. After falling into a dormant state, the vineyard was replanted in 1996 by former Silicon Valley entrepreneur Terry Speizer, who crafted wine in collaboration with viticulturalist Jim Efird and enologist Steven Ross Dooley (who has garnered an impressive reputation working with Edna Valley Winery, Morro Bay Wines and Eschelon). In 2006, Fintan du Fresne took over as winemaker, and in late August 2008, the Crimson Wine Group purchased the winery.
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Address:
7525 Orcutt Rd.
City: San Luis Obispo, CA
Phone: 805-541-9463
Web site: www.domainealfred.com
E-mail: sales@domainealfred.com
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