Country: USA  Region: California  Vintage: 2019 Varietal: Pinot noir  Category: Red Wine  Color: Red Producer: Littorai "Heidi and Ted Lemon are behind this family run winery which was created in 1993. Ted began his career in Burgundy after earning an oenology degree at the Université de Dijon in 1981. He has worked for some top Burgundian estates, such as Roumier, Bruno Clair and Domaine Dujac. Ted's skills earned him a position as winemaker and vineyard manager at Domaine Guy Roulot in Meursault, being the first American ever to do so in Burgundy! Heidi's path to farming was inspired after living and working in Germany following college and her subsequent work at several wineries in California, including Robert Long Vineyards and Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. The regional Anderson Valley Les Larmes is intended for consumption in the first few years after bottling. While it can, and often does, improve in the bottle, it is not intended for long term aging and we encourage you to enjoy it while young. While it will improve in the months after release, it provides real pleasure immediately.   Vinification: This wine was made with 11% whole bunch fermentation in traditional open-top fermenters using native yeasts. Once malolactic fermentation was complete, the wine was aged in 25% new French oak barrels for a period of 16 months. Tasting Notes: Blackberry, black licorice, red apple and candied aromatic notes with hints of forest floor.  The Les Larmes will pair with heartier, more savory fare and will improve greatly over the next few years. Food Suggestion: An outstanding match with roast game (grouse, pigeon, pheasant), duck in fruit sauces or soft, white, creamy cheeses. Closure: Natural Cork  ABV:13.1%