The Pinot Noir grapes are hand-picked during the cool early morning hours to preserve their fresh, delicate flavors. Once the grapes arrive at the winery, they are carefully destemmed and cold soaked for several days to enhance color and flavor. Fermentation takes place in small, open top containers with twice daily punch downs to intensify color and structure. After a gentle pressing, the wine is racked several times and transferred into French oak barrels, 25% new, for 11 months of aging.