92 POINTS - “The 2007 Pinot Noir Jerusalem Hill takes it up a notch. It exhibits a captivating nose of pain grille, damp earth, cinnamon, incense, wild cherry, and raspberry. Structured, balanced, and pure in the finish, it will evolve for another 1-2 years and drink well through 2019." — Robert Parker’s the Wine Advocate
VINEYARD
Jerusalem Hill is one of Domaine Serene’s Estate Vineyards and is located on the northern end of the Eola Hills. This 55 acre vineyard is planted to Pommard, Wadenswil, 777, 115, and 828 clones of Pinot Noir. Elevations range from 200 - 300 feet and the soils are of the sedimentary Woodburn series. The 2007 is a blend of Wadensvil (48%), Pommard (46%) and Dijon 115 (6%).
CROP YIELD & AGING
2.75 tons/acre. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels of which 70% were new.
VINTAGE NOTES
At Domaine Serene, we've always maintained that great wines begin with great vineyards. This was particularly true of the 2007 vintage, where a myriad of weather conditions and temperature changes made for a very challenging harvest. Yes, it rained, but as fastidious as Pinot Noir may be, a little rain is not a bad thing, especially in dry-farmed vineyards. Most importantly is to have strong, proactive vineyard practices and a sound, diligent winemaking team that maintains a level head and does not panic and pick early.
2007 was a cool, wet vintage and will answer all requests for lower alcohols. The wines are beautifully integrated and drinking much softer at an earlier age – that is to say these are beautifully nuanced wines that are enjoyable now but will age beautifully with proper cellaring.