A unique feature of Spring Mountain is that it doesn’t experience the wide diurnal (day-night) temperature swings of some other mountain terroirs. Compared to the Napa “valley floor,” Spring Mountain is cooler during the day, warmer at night, and more consistent overall. It isn’t as cool as most of the mountain terroirs of Old World Europe, which is a function of latitude (i.e. proximity to the equator), yet another factor to consider when evaluating these wines. Spring Mountain Vineyard is a Napa Valley landmark comprised of three historic properties operating under one banner. The estate covers more than 800 acres in total on the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas range, with 226 of those acres planted to vineyards. Altitudes range from 400 to 1,700 feet, in mineral-rich volcanic soils.

 Many Californian Pinot Noirs, especially those from warmer climates, skew darker and richer, with more sappy, cooked-fruit/cola notes. This wine, even after several years of bottle age, maintains the tension and snap that marks great Pinot Noirs from cooler climates. Bright red and black cherry, a touch of orange peel (a mature note), underbrush, leather, and a firm mineral underpinning (dark soil, crushed stones). This Pinot Noir would pair beautifully with the same kinds of foods you might pair with red Burgundy: roast chicken or coq au vin; beef bourguignon; or, at the other end of the spectrum cedar-planked salmon or smoked trout.