Welcome to a special Halloween edition of our blog, where we pull back the vineyard curtain on the craft behind our whole cluster of fermented Pinot Noir. At 32 Winds and Mascarin Wines, our approach to Pinot Noir is about letting the grape and the land tell their own stories. No tricks here—just the hauntingly complex flavors that come from a deep respect for the vine and a commitment to letting the vineyard speak through every bottle.

What’s Whole Cluster Fermentation? A Little Pinot Noir Magic

Some call it mysterious; we call it spectacular. Whole cluster fermentation is like casting a spell that brings out the true character of Pinot Noir. Instead of separating grapes from their stems, we ferment the entire bunch, stems and all, like tossing ingredients into a cauldron. When done right, 100% whole cluster fermentation gives our Pinot Noir a complexity and structure that goes beyond the ordinary. But don’t be intimidated—this isn’t about trends or old winemaking dogma. It’s about embracing each vintage’s unique qualities and truly channeling the vineyard’s spirit.

The Perfect Potion: Balance, Acidity & Skin Maturity

In our region, whole cluster fermentation increases the wine’s pH slightly, creating a need to start with grapes that are already balanced, with just the right acidity to handle the transformation. By focusing on farming practices that yield grapes with naturally high acid and full “skin-maturity” (fully ripened skins), we ensure our wines develop the structural depth needed for aging. Extended maceration allows the skins and stems to work their alchemy, releasing not only the grape’s pure essence but also nuanced, earthy flavors from the seeds.

No Tricks, Just Pure Pinot Noir Treats

Our Winemaker Matt Taylor’s decision to use whole clusters is not made lightly; think of it as the ultimate formula for structure and depth in our Pinot Noir. Each whole cluster fermentation is an intentional choice, not a routine ritual. Our vineyards have unique tales to tell with each vintage, and no two wines are quite alike. Each bottle embodies character, texture, and the ability to age gracefully, like a fine potion waiting to be uncorked.

Why Whole Cluster? Because Every Bottle is a Story

Choosing whole cluster fermentation is about crafting Pinot Noir that is complex, layered, and a true reflection of our land. These wines tell the story of our vineyards, our seasons, and our commitment to balance and quality. Each pour is a taste of time and place, a wine that evolves and reveals its layers with each glass.

Whether you’re a Pinot Noir enthusiast or someone just starting to explore the world of whole cluster wines, we invite you to experience the unique character of our wines. As the autumn air turns crisp, raise a glass with us and taste the results of our dedication to vineyard-driven, expressive Pinot Noir. Here’s to letting the vine, the grape, and a touch of vineyard magic speak through every bottle.