Winemaker Notes
Because of its closeness to the Mendocino Coast, marine cooling affects Baker
Ranch more than their other AV sights. Temperatures are very cool in the summer
allowing for an extended growing season that typically comes in 2-3 weeks later
than the Boonville vineyards. This climate allows for fully ripe flavors and tannins at moderate alcohols. Clonal material is 115, 777 and Mount Eden. They’ve
farmed the site since 2010.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2021 Pinot Noir Baker Ranch Vineyard has slowly unfurling scents of lavender, licorice and tea leaves with detailed earthy, foresty accents in the background. The light-bodied palate is chalky and wonderfully refreshing with layers of botanical fruit that seem to expand and gain intensity on the long finish.
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.