Folktale Whole Cluster Pinot Noir 2024

Producer

Folktale Winery & Vineyards is a contemporary California estate located in the Carmel Valley, where a spirit of creativity and storytelling inspires every bottle. Drawing fruit from some of Monterey County's finest vineyards, Folktale has earned a reputation for producing expressive, cool climate wines that balance innovation with a strong sense of place. Their focus on terroir driven winemaking and food friendly styles has made the winery one of Monterey's most respected producers of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Winery

Situated just minutes from the Pacific Ocean, Folktale benefits from one of California's most remarkable growing environments. Cool ocean air funnels through the Salinas Valley each afternoon, extending the growing season and allowing grapes to develop exceptional flavor while retaining vibrant natural acidity. The Whole Cluster Pinot Noir is one of the winery's most distinctive and winemaker driven cuvées. Produced using a significant proportion of whole cluster fermentation, a traditional Burgundian technique that ferments grapes with their stems intact, the wine gains additional aromatic lift, savory complexity, gentle tannic structure, and remarkable freshness. Careful oak aging further enhances the wine without overshadowing its vibrant fruit.

Region

Monterey County has become one of California's premier regions for cool climate Pinot Noir. Morning fog from Monterey Bay, persistent coastal winds, and a long growing season create ideal conditions for slow, even ripening. These influences allow Pinot Noir to develop bright fruit, lively acidity, and exceptional aromatic precision while maintaining elegance and balance. The region's combination of maritime influence and diverse vineyard sites has established Monterey as one of the state's most exciting sources for refined, terroir expressive Pinot Noir.

Wine Profile

The 2024 Folktale Whole Cluster Pinot Noir is vibrant, energetic, and beautifully expressive. Aromas of red cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, rose petal, baking spice, and forest floor lead into a palate layered with bright red fruit, subtle earth, and hints of black tea and white pepper. The cool 2024 growing season produced exceptional aromatic definition and freshness, while whole cluster fermentation contributes floral lift, savory depth, fine tannic structure, and a distinctly layered personality. The finish is silky, mineral driven, and remarkably elegant, making this a Pinot Noir that stands apart through both precision and character.

Pairing Ideas

Folktale Whole Cluster Pinot Noir is exceptionally versatile at the table. Pair it with roasted duck, grilled salmon, herb roasted chicken, mushroom risotto, pork tenderloin, or cedar plank trout. It is equally delicious alongside charcuterie, roasted root vegetables, and creamy cheeses such as Brie or Camembert. Its bright acidity, refined structure, and savory complexity make it a natural companion for dishes that highlight fresh herbs, earthy flavors, and simply prepared ingredients.