Luminous Hills Estate Astra Pinot Noir 2015

“Even warmer than the year prior, 2015 was a new warmest vintage on record, but surprisingly one with characteristics that, counter to the relatively high temperatures, provided qualities for depth, richness, complexity and balance rarely seen in any vintage. Those characteristics included an early start, a generous crop (carrying more fruit slowed down sugar development and acid depletion). The 2015 Astra is drawn from six barrels in the northeastern blocks at Luminous Hills, and from equal parts of the 667 and 115 clones. The predominantly morning sun influence of these blocks deliver more ethereal nuanced qualities, with dark tone underpinnings, spice and structure from the 115 clone planted on the lower elevation sedimentary soil. Dramatic aromatics are the signature of the Astra each year that it is made. 16.7% whole cluster fermented and Barrel aged in all French cooperage. “