2023 Capiaux Chimera Pinot Noir

Russian River Valley, Sonoma

Chimera is one of my earliest wines, the name taken from Greek mythology... "a monster comprised of three different animals" as is depicted on the label. Originally blended from three vineyards back in 2001, it now primarily is derived from three very diverse areas/sub- appellations of Russian River where both cool temps and dense fog blend with the effects of mildly warmer weather to evoke very precise yet rich and full flavors. Soil types are Laniger Loam, with a Yolo Loam over-wash and Gold Ridge Fine Sandy Loam.

In the glass, dark red, purple hue with a transparent center.

Floral aromas of hibiscus and graham crackers. Concentrated flavors of crushed rose petals, cranberry, cran-raisins, roasted strawberry. 2023 Chimera is fleshy, medium bodied, with balanced acid and tannins.

Fermentation: 10% whole cluster, 4-day cold soak, uninoculated fermentation, open top tank with punch downs, 11-day total maceration, malolactic in barrel aged sur lie until bottling without fining or filtration.

Fermentation: 10% whole cluster, 4-day cold soak, uninoculated fermentation, open top tank with punch downs, 11-day total maceration, ml in barrel aged sur lie until bottling without fining or filtration.

Vinous/Galloni 92 pts “The 2023 Pinot Noir Chimera is a terrific introduction to this range. A burst of dark red/purplish fruit, rose petal, lavender, sweet spice, blood orange and pomegranate make a strong first impression. Juicy yet vibrant, the 2023 is all class.” Drinking Window: 2024 – 2031;
Reviewed December 2024

Appellation: Russian River

Vineyards:

26% Starscape Vineyard, Russian River

 29% Goff Vineyard, Russian River

26% Starscape Vineyard, Russian River

 24% Appian Way Vineyard, Russian River

 17% Widdoes Vineyard, Russian River

 3% Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands

 1% Garys’ Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands