Winemaker Notes
An extraordinary single vineyard Pinot Noir, this wine gives an immediate impression of depth and concentration in the glass, with remarkably explosive aromas of dark plum, black cherry and boysenberry. The palate is rich in texture, yet light on its feet, with fine-polished tannins and an exceptionally balanced acidity. Judicious use of whole clusters in the fermentation gives the wine a broad and satisfying mouthfeel.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
From a site along the edge of the Green Valley appellation, this starts with a beautiful bouquet of fresh cherry and raspberry that opens the door to a seamless, supple palate. Integrated acidity supports the smooth, rich flavors of baking spice and black tea.
While the Russian River Valley is a large appellation with multiple climate zones and soil types, it is best known for cool-climate varieties, with Pinot Noir as the most celebrated. The grapes benefit from a reliable late afternoon flow of Pacific Ocean fog through the Petaluma Gap and along the Russian River Valley that ensures slow and steady ripening and the preservation of grape acidity. Today many of California’s most highly regarded Pinot Noir vineyards are in the Russian River Valley, along with its sub-appellation, Green Valley.
Historically Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs had bright red fruit and delicate earthy, mineral notes. But changes in viticultural and winemaking practices have led to stylistic changes in some of the region’s wines. Adjustments to canopy management, among other techniques, have resulted in riper fruit and bolder wines as well. These show flavors of black cherry, blackberry, cola, spice and darker, loamy earth tones, accenting traditional Pinot Noir notes of strawberry, raspberry and light cherry.