The 2016 Freedom Hill is dark, almost opaque ruby red. The typical dark cherry and wet clay aromas are especially broad and complex. The palate is quite lively with concentrated fruits, dark flowers, roasted squash and hints of citrus peel. With all of the power on the palate, its finish is still fresh, bright, and clean. A beautiful vintage for enjoying now or into the future.
Ratings
94 pts -Vinous June 2019
Vineyard Notes
Freedom Hill Vineyard is located in the foothills of the Coast Range, 10 miles SW of Salem, Oregon. During the day warm air rises from the valley floor ripening the skins. At night, cool ocean breezes act to retain acidity. Planted on old sedimentary soils, the vines have a SW exposure at an elevation of 520’ to 580’. Our Pinot noir comes from two blocks, one planted in 2004 with Pommard and Wädenswil and one planted in 2008 with 777.
Winemaker Notes
Vintage Notes:
2016 was the third in a string of warm summers and early harvests. It produced the smallest crop of the three. The harvest began with a bit of heat and dehydration in the fruit. This immediately resolved with cooler temperatures and the rest of the harvest produced well balanced fruit with lovely flavors and ripe tannins. We finished picking at the end of September, producing a total of 10,200 cases. In general 2016 produced lush, early-drinking wines with lovely aromatics and accessible fruit, spice and floral notes. They can be aged and are quite approachable in their youth.
