Winemaker Notes
Moderately dense purple-red in the glass, this wine opens with aromas of red plum, fig and cherry. With each sip, the drinker is rewarded with red fruits, a touch of vanilla, toasted coconut husk, cola and black cherry. Bright acidity helps direct the crunchy tannins to the front of the palate, while the silky mid-palate delivers a mouth-coating feel and helps drive the length and persistence.
Pair with a pear and blackberry crumble with bay leaf custard.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Juicy and fruity with cherries, forest berries and sweet spices on the nose. Medium body with a fresh array of succulent berries on the palate and a sweeter, richer touch towards the 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.