Van Der Kamp Vineyard, Sonoma Mountain
$58 (Wine Club Reorder Price: $49)
Inspired by a small family property in the South of France, La Pitchoune means “the little one”. The name speaks to small production, small lots, and the idea that the small size is their greatest asset. At La Pitchoune they prize the special care that they can apply to their craft. By combining passion, art, and science, they ensure that each blend is expressed to its fullest.
An artist, scientist, farmer, gourmet chef, mountain climber, and winemaker is what best describes the person behind La Pitchoune wines. Andrew Berge, Master Winemaker, is so special due to his understanding of the geography, soil, vines, and fruit that end up being the foundation of the wines created. With a Masters Degree in Agriculture, Andrew is more than a winemaker. His ability to comprehend, care, and tend for the fruit as it matures on the vines allows him to have full control of the grapes long before they arrive at the winery and the actual winemaking begins. Balance and terroir are words that are too often thrown around for the sake of marketing, but for Andrew they are part of his quest to change the perception of California wines.
The 2015 Van Der Kamp Vineyard atop Sonoma Mountain makes this Pinot Noir a dark ruby color and introduces a complex bouquet dominated by aromas of ripe raspberries, bramble, white flowers, blood orange, and smoked meats. Corresponding flavors decorated with a tar or resin characteristic sweep across the palate. Chewy tannins and a mineral-laced finish hint at it’s mountainside origins. Destined to age exceptionally well, this wine should provide remarkable drinking experiences for the next 8 years or more. In true La Pitchoune, small production form, only 48 cases were produced!
Consistent with the origins of La Pitchoune, we recommend taking this French-style wine and pairing with an incredible Beef Bourguignon. Bigger, more tannic Pinot Noirs, such as this are ideal with hearty stews. The seductive aromatics, moderate tannins, and vibrant flavor really hold their own against this classic French beef stew.
Jennie Kaplan Woodson – May 2021
Bacchus & Venus Wines 