Winemaker’s Notes
This is our third vintage of Terra de Promissio and it continues to be a high performing site. The nose leads with star anise and wet earth, but quickly gives way to cherry pit, blood orange, and grenadine. A touch of purple flowers shows off the lighter side of this dark and brooding wine. In the mouth, it dazzles as potpourri spices intermingle with black cherry and cherry pit flavors. There is a centered quality to this wine, with a perfect balance of acid and tannins. The medium tannic structure seems almost dusty but possesses a refreshing citrus feel, reminiscent of single origin Brazilian coffee. The wine lingers on the palate with great tenacity and a tangy finish.
The Vineyards
“The Land of Promise” is family owned and operated by husband and wife team Charles and Diana Karren. The Karren’s bought a 50 acre dairy ranch in 1999 and planted over 33,000 Pinot Noir vines on 32 acres in 2002. Terra de Promissio had its first harvest in 2005.
Harvest 2013
With great back-to-back vintages, 2013 was every bit as good as 2012 has proven to be. Amidst concerns about another drought year, the rain gauges filled up to about 80% of the yearly average. The growing conditions were very favorable, which resulted in a remarkably similar growing season to the exceptional 2012 vintage. The only notable difference, however, was the increase of heat units in 2013, as measured by the Growing Degree Day index. With below average rainfall for the season bud break initiated earlier than average along Westside Road. April showers helped to drive good shoot growth and set the plants up for May flowering. Excellent weather at flowering time allowed for fantastic set and a bountiful yield across all appellations and varieties. Even with an earlier start to the growing season, the grapes had the ideal amount of time on the vine to achieve full maturity without any threat of inclement weather late in the season. Wines from the 2013 vintage exhibit extremely pure and polished tannins and the acidity will provide longevity, but the supple structure also offers earlier enjoyment.