Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Aromas of baked strawberries, rosemary and black tea. Medium-bodied with velvety tannins. Nicely ripened red fruit on the palate. Earthy, with baking spice coming through.
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Wine Spectator
A ripe and showy style, with an exotic tilt to the blackberry and boysenberry compote notes, which are infused liberally with anise, singed apple wood and briar. Shows a singed wood spice accent on the finish, which has good underlying energy for balance.
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.