Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2018 Pinot Noir Baker Ranch Vineyard has a medium ruby-purple color and begins with tar and turned earth, with blackberry fruit and accents of aniseed, fir and bergamot. The palate is medium-bodied, silky, bright and lively with pleasurable earthy accents and a long, delicate finish. What an expressive dichotomy between the deep, earthy scents of this wine and its bright uplift in the mouth. This wasn't made in the 2017 vintage due to the heat wave.
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.