2017 Pinot Noir Cardiac Hill | Library Release
Single-block reserve from our steepest, heat-trapping slope • Bottled June 2019 (6+ years in bottle)
Cardiac Hill: The Intensity of the Slope
Library Release • Bottled June 2019 • 6+ years in bottle • Single-block Pinot Noir from our steepest, heat-trapping amphitheater
Don't Let the Name Fool You
Cardiac Hill is our lowest elevation block—but it's also our most punishing. This south-facing amphitheater acts as a solar oven, trapping Yamhill-Carlton heat while the steep 45-degree pitch ensures the vines never get a lazy drink.
In the red clay soils of this block, the 2017 vintage found a rugged, savory power. While other blocks whisper, Cardiac Hill speaks with a deep voice—expect dark fruit, sun-drenched tannins, and a persistent mineral grip born from the struggle of the slope.
The Architecture:
- Site: South-facing amphitheater, steep 45° slope
- Soil: Heavy red clay (heat retention + mineral grip)
- Planted: 1995, Pommard + Dijon 115
- Elevation: Lowest on the estate (~600 ft) but hottest microclimate
- The Effect: Small berries, concentrated flavors, rugged tannins
At 8 Years: Ready Now
What started as bold, structured fruit has evolved into layers of forest floor, dried cherry, black tea, and cracked pepper. The tannins have softened but maintain that distinctive Cardiac Hill grip—savory, mineral, persistent.
This is Pinot Noir for people who want tension and depth, not just fruit and oak.
How to Serve
Temperature: 58–62°F (cool, not cold)
Decant: 30–60 minutes to let the savory layers unfold
Pair with: Duck, pork loin with crispy skin, wild mushroom risotto, aged Gruyère
Compare the Vineyard's Architecture
| Feature | Cardiac Hill | Rebecca's Reserve | Heritage |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Vibe | Bold & Savory | Taut & Precise | Graceful & Earthy |
| Site | Steep heat-trapping slope | High-density 4×4 block | 1984 original planting |
| Soil | Heavy red clay | Marine sediments + clay | Marine sedimentary |
| Tannin | Rugged & Grippy | Fine & Linear | Silky & Resolved |
Taste the vineyard's architecture side-by-side:
Shop the Estate Blocks 6-Pack →
Library Release Details: Bottled June 2019 • ~125 cases produced • 13% alcohol • Aged 18 months in 20% new French oak • Drinking beautifully now, will continue to evolve through 2030+
Shipping: Included in Estate Blocks 6-Pack and 2017 Vintage Collection. Free shipping on orders $300+.
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