I had a fortunate encounter with my new favorite Pinot Noir yesterday.  This was the first time I had the opportunity to taste a single vineyard Pinot Nero bottling from Terlano’s “Montigl” vineyard.  It was love at first sip.

Montigl is a vineyard which derives its name from the ward for “small mountian”.  This should come as no surprise as its vines are planted at 1500-2100 feet above sea level, on terraces with perfectly sunny, south/ south-west facing slopes.  This is extreme vine-growing at its best.  Can you imagine what it takes to care for these vines?

The wine is classic Pinot Noir- all black forest fruits, minerality and boggy deliciousness on the nose.  In the palate the fruit is prominent but it is the incredible saline, stingy mineral finish that truly impresses.  If this wine doesn’t make you think of extreme downhill skiing and craggy mountain tops, then I don’t know what wine will.

Beautiful in the glass- showing a  (typical) gorgeous light purple rim.

We paired a glass of this with dinner… the wine was an inspiration for Baked Salmon, stewed lentils and a few green vegetables.  Perfection!

Montigl meets its match- baked salmon with tomatoes and garlic.