Winemaker Notes
On the nose, this wine offers elegant, bright aromas of plum, strawberry, and cranberry with a hint of rose petal. On the palate, lush flavors of raspberry, blueberry and red cherry are accentuated with hints of sandalwood spice.
The natural, structural acidity grants this wine a unique vibrancy, and a long, persistent finish. It is an excellent partner to many different foods.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Lifted notes of red cherries, pomegranate, dried herbs and subtle oak. The midweight palate has smooth tannins and bright acidity. Clean and focused with a gentle finish.
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.