Meadowcroft Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2020
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2019-
Wilfred
Wong
Meadowcroft Wines are vineyard specific and limited in production, expressing both European wine heritage and California creativity. Meadowcroft is the namesake of Winegrower Tom Meadowcroft. The meaning of Meadowcroft is a fertile field or meadow and croft refers to a cultivated area that has been nurtured over time. The honeybee on the label symbolizes this conscientious work and the process of transformation from wine grapes into an outstanding wine.
“My hope is to create wines with a Sonoma pulse that express the complexity found in European varietals,” says Tom Meadowcroft.
With over thirty-five years of experience in viticulture and winemaking, Tom Meadowcroft knows dirt. Or better yet, soil. He can easily judge what makes a vineyard great. He enjoys discovering farmers with small vineyards throughout California that are producing amazing grapes and interesting varieties. He’s quick to identify these little-known gems and produce extraordinary small production wines.
Tom’s passion for wines stems from his experiences growing up, working and traveling in Europe and the United States. Early in life, he began his journey in winemaking by working the harvest of 1979 in Bordeaux. Following that harvest he studied at UC Davis and Napa College graduating with a degree in Viticulture and Enology. After earning his degrees, he worked in Napa and Washington State as a vineyard Manager focusing on sustainable farming and environmental advocacy. Throughout his career, Tom has managed dozens of properties for top wineries in Napa and Sonoma, all along instilling core principals relating to wine cultivation from the growing of wines to the making of the wines. These experiences inspire his vision for the Meadowcroft Wine he proudly makes today.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.