Morlet Family Vineyards En Famille Pinot Noir 2018

Winery Background and History

Morlet Family Vineyards, founded by Luc and Jodie Morlet in St. Helena, Napa Valley, is renowned for producing handcrafted wines that blend Old World traditions with New World innovation. Luc Morlet, a fifth-generation winemaker from France, brings his family’s legacy to California, focusing on vineyard-designated wines that express the unique terroirs of Napa Valley and Sonoma County. The estate emphasizes meticulous vineyard management and classical winemaking techniques to create wines of elegance and complexity.

Producer and Winemaker

Luc Morlet, the proprietor and winemaker, hails from a lineage of French vintners and has honed his craft through experiences in both France and California. His approach marries traditional Burgundian methods with California’s diverse terroirs, resulting in wines that are both expressive and refined. Luc’s dedication to quality and terroir-driven winemaking is evident in each bottle produced at Morlet Family Vineyards.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The 2018 ‘En Famille’ Pinot Noir originates from a vineyard planted in 1990, situated in the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA on the Sonoma Coast. Located on the second ridge from the Pacific Ocean at elevations between 1,100 and 1,300 feet, the vineyard benefits from southeastern exposure and Goldridge sedimentary soils. The cool, maritime climate and unique soil composition contribute to the wine’s vibrant acidity and complex flavor profile.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes for the ‘En Famille’ Pinot Noir are hand-harvested at night, sorted meticulously by hand, and fermented using native yeasts. Fermentation occurs in French oak puncheons, with punch-downs to extract color and flavor. The wine is then aged for 14 months in French oak barrels from select artisan coopers. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, this process preserves the wine’s integrity and expression of terroir.

Tasting Notes

The 2018 ‘En Famille’ Pinot Noir exhibits a medium ruby-purple hue and opens with aromas of cranberry jelly, pomegranate, and raspberry preserves, complemented by notes of underbrush, dried lavender, and orange peel. On the palate, it is full-bodied and densely packed with red fruit preserves and earthy layers, supported by finely grained tannins and vibrant freshness, culminating in a refreshing lift. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes such as roast duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto. Its vibrant acidity and complex fruit profile complement the richness of these dishes, while the earthy undertones harmonize with savory flavors. Additionally, it can be enjoyed with a selection of soft cheeses or charcuterie.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its nuances, serve the 2018 ‘En Famille’ Pinot Noir slightly below room temperature, at 59–61°F (15–16°C). Decanting for one hour prior to serving can enhance its aromatic complexity and allow the wine to open up gracefully.

Storage and Aging Potential

While approachable now, the 2018 ‘En Famille’ Pinot Noir possesses the structure and balance to age gracefully for 20 to 25 years. Proper cellaring conditions—cool temperatures, consistent humidity, and minimal light exposure—will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and depth over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Pinot Noir

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 14.5%

Scores

• Wine Advocate: 96/100

• Jeb Dunnuck: 96/100

• James Suckling: 94/100

• CellarTracker: 93/100