Description
Ma Danseuse, or 'My Dancer,' is named for Lady Michael by Sir Peter, in honour of how they first met. Situated between 1,200 and 1,400 feet above sea level on steep mountain slopes, the vineyard faces east and north-east. It benefits from both the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean over the ridges to the west and the mild sunny mountain climate. The soil of the vineyard is a composite of clay, silt and volcanic gravels, which gives polished tannins, body and a hint of graphite-mineral. The Ma Danseuse is the most feminine of the trio of Pinot Noir vineyards in Fort-Ross Seaview.
The winter and spring of 2012 were wet and cold, but bloom occurred in ideal weather and the climate throughout the summer was picture perfect: temperate with only moderate heat spikes. A long, mild, Indian summer was an important factor in the ripening process. Yields for the 2012 harvest were slightly higher than average, with beautiful, clean, healthy grape clusters across all varietals, appellations and vineyards. Ma Danseuse charms with its nose of roses, raspberry, Griotte cherry, strawberry, forest floor and a subtle note of violet. Delicate, fragrant, complete and refined, 2012 Ma Danseuse has in the palate a wonderful concentration of red fruits, red rose blossoms, with subtle notes of Asian spices and pheasant fur, which embraces a silky texture and lingering aromatic finish. It will continue to express its potential for two decades.