Winemaker Notes
The wine presents enticing aromas of raspberries, clove, and rose petals that lift gracefully from the glass. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with well-integrated tannins, offering a juicy and vibrant character complemented by subtle floral undertones. It is well balanced with impressive intensity.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This elegant, attractive, light- to medium-bodied wine offers subtle, intricate flavors of black tea, red tea, cranberry, cinnamon and bay leaf on a silky texture of light tannins and lively acidity.
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James Suckling
An inviting nose of red cherries, rose petals and red licorice. Medium-bodied with well-integrated tannins. Juicy and vibrant on the palate with underlying floral character. Well balanced and with good intensity.
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Wine Spectator
Crisp and minerally, with a savory snap to the fresh-cut green apple and Key lime flavors that are packed with rich acidity. Sea salt nuances line the 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.