Sojourning Iron
TASTING NOTES:
Sonoma Coast - “This wine represents the phenomenal Sonoma Coast growing region and the moderate weather patterns of the 2023 vintage. It has layers of complexity and strength while offering elegance and nuance as Pinot Noir does at its best. This wine was made with lots from eight unique vineyards spread across the vast Sonoma Coast, from Annapolis in the north, to Occidental in the west, and down to the tip of the Petaluma Gap. Walala, Riddle, Sangiacomo, and Gap’s Crown vineyards are some of the key components.” (AbV 14.4%, pH 3.63, TA 6.0 g/L)
Russian River Valley* - “This wine showcases the beautiful expression of Pinot Noir when grown in the cool climate and loamy soils of the Russian River Valley. For our 2023 vintage, we blended five vineyards and several clones by selecting barrels from each distinct, separately fermented lot to create this elegant appellation wine. Wohler Vineyard provides classic red fruit and earthy notes from its site adjacent to the river. Riddle Vineyard, located in Green Valley, contributes nuance and complexity. Bucher Vineyard, located near Rochioli, adds structure and fresh fruit flavors. Small portions from the renowned Reuling and UV Laguna Vineyards balance the blend, lending intense aromas and silky tannins.” (AbV 14.2%, pH 3.59, TA 5.7 g/L)
VARIETALS: 100% Pinot Noir
BARRELS: French oak, 50% new.
PAIRS WITH: N/A
THAT REMINDS ME OF: Soldering.
Fascinating process. People somehow figured out you can join pieces of metal together by melting a different piece of metal between them.
Soldering has been around since at least 5,000 years ago. Pretty much since the beginning of metalworking as an art. The swords of the Sumerians in 3000 BC show hard soldering, and the techniques have been honed drastically over the millennia.
The filler metal that becomes solder is often something known as a eutectic alloy. Eutectic mixtures are homogenous, and rather than having its components melt at different temperatures, as they normally would, they melt together at the same temperature, often lower than usual. Some of the most common solders are tin and lead mixtures, though combinations involving zinc, silver, and cadmium are more effective for use under certain conditions.
ICYMI, you have two choices: