Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
Taking the Anderson Valley to different place? When I tasted this wine, I thought to myself, "This doesn't really remind me of the Anderson Valley." Yet the 2013 Angel Camp Estate Grown Pinot Noir seems like a labor of love from a very dedicated artisan producer. Richer in dark fruits and fuller on the palate, this is a pretty fine and well-conceived effort. Medium to dark garnet color; ripe strawberry aroma, lots and fruit and pleasing aromatics, medium depth; red cherries and wild strawberries in the flavors, medium depth; bright textures on a medium body and generous on the palate; dry, medium acidity, nice balance; lively finish. (Tasted: March 1, 2016, San Francisco, CA)
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.