Clay Creek Vineyards Pinot Noir 2022

Winery Background and History

Clay Creek Vineyards is a label under Delicato Family Wines, a family-owned winery established in 1924 by Sicilian immigrant Gaspare Indelicato. Located in Manteca, California, Delicato has grown into one of the top wine companies in the U.S., known for producing quality wines across various price points. The Clay Creek brand focuses on delivering approachable, fruit-forward wines that reflect California’s diverse terroirs.

Producer and Winemaker

Delicato Family Wines oversees the production of Clay Creek wines, with a team dedicated to sustainable viticulture and innovative winemaking techniques. The winemaking process emphasizes the expression of varietal character and regional attributes, aiming to produce wines that are both accessible and reflective of California’s winegrowing regions.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes for the 2022 Clay Creek Pinot Noir were sourced from a blend of cool and warm climate vineyards across California, including areas like Lodi and Clarksburg. The diverse microclimates contribute to the wine’s complexity, with cooler regions providing acidity and structure, while warmer areas offer ripe fruit flavors. This combination results in a balanced and layered Pinot Noir.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The Pinot Noir grapes underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve fresh fruit characteristics. Post-fermentation, a portion of the wine was aged in French and American oak barrels, imparting subtle notes of vanilla and spice. The remaining wine was kept in stainless steel to maintain brightness and purity of fruit. This approach balances oak influence with varietal expression.

Tasting notes

The 2022 Clay Creek Pinot Noir displays a ruby red color. Aromas of black cherry, plum, mocha, white pepper, and toasty oak lead to a palate featuring flavors of strawberry, plum, vanilla, and spice. The wine is medium-bodied with a plush, rich finish, showcasing a harmonious balance between fruit and oak elements.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Pinot Noir pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted poultry, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, and charcuterie boards. Its balanced acidity and fruit-forward profile complement both savory and earthy flavors, making it versatile for pairing with meats, cheeses, and vegetarian dishes alike.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve the 2022 Clay Creek Pinot Noir slightly chilled, at a temperature between 14–16°C (57–61°F). Use red wine glasses with a slightly wider bowl to allow the aromas to develop. No decanting is necessary. Proper serving enhances the wine’s complexity, allowing its layers of fruit, oak, and acidity to shine through with elegance and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Clay Creek Pinot Noir is crafted for immediate enjoyment but also possesses the structure to age gracefully over the next 2–3 years. Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent temperature and humidity—the wine will maintain its freshness and may develop additional complexity, showcasing subtle tertiary notes.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

• 86% Pinot Noir

• 7% Malbec

• 7% Petite Sirah

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%