Like so many others I was glued to my television watching the tragedy and ensuing chaos 
in Boston. I was moved as I saw strangers not run away from harm but run towards the danger area to help other strangers. This in my thinking is what makes us human. It’s the ability to not only think of ourselves in times of need but to help as many others as we can get to safety.
It’s these moments when Americans pull together creating a strong force. Unlike other countries we’re relatively new to these types of attacks but we’re a strong resilient breed. Maybe this is what draws others to want to do us harm, even if that threat comes from one of our own. But we’re like steel, you may scratch our surface but you’ll never destroy us. We will remain standing, strong and united.
Ok, enough of that now onto this week’s sample, Steelhead Vineyards Pinot Noir 2011 which I received as a sample.
Aromas of strawberry and cherry on the nose. Flavors of bright fresh berries, strawberry, bramble berry with earthy notes and hint of spice in the finish. I’m very picky about Pinot Noir but this is a lovely example of a California Pinot Noir.
For more info on Steelhead Vineyards and a review of the 2010 Pinot Noir, click here.
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 13.8%
Acidity: 0.60 g/100ml
pH: 3.68
Production: 2,500 cases
SRP: $15
The 2011 growing season presented challenges across California. A wet winter and spring delayed bud break followed by a cool summer then early fall rains brought the threat of rot and mildew for fruit remaining on the vines. Recognizing the difficulties across the region, Steelhead Vineyards harvested early and found the grapes had achieved their full maturation.
Steelhead takes its name from the Steelhead trout native to Wine Creek and Dry Creek in the Dry Creek Valley. I found this wine appropriate for this week’s blog post not only because of the reference to steel but also their motto, “Better Wine, Better World” showing their continued conservation efforts and the pride they have in their wines. From its beginning Steelhead has partnered with both Quivera Vineyards and Trout Unlimited (TU) supporting creek restoration in Northern California. TU’s Water and Wine program launched in 2008 and targets the instream flows, salmonid habitats and addressing water needs for vineyards in the area. You can show your support too, for every bottle sold a donation is made to TU conservation efforts.
As we pick up the pieces from this terrible week and I see thousands of individuals show love and support for Boston and those directly affected, I can’t help but think when it comes right down to it, we’re family. We may fight like cats and dogs but mess with one and we rally and unite. Now you’re not just messing with one but the entire family.
Follow me on:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WineChicksGuide
Twitter: http://twitter.com/WineChicksGuide
Wine Chicks Guide 