Winemaker Notes
Pairs beautifully with braised meats (osso buco), dishes such as gorgonzola with mushroom risotto, and a variety of cheeses.
Professional Ratings
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The Somm Journal
There’s a real slip on the palate to it, as if all the edges of the tannins have been buffed. I’m also getting a really seductive tea quality and gaminess. It’s lovely. The presence of striking acidity within a depth of boysenberries and cola makes for one dynamic red. White pepper–sprinkled Luxardo cherries go earthbound with mushrooms and dried leaves before the remarkably savory finish leaves a fine trace of plum skin on the palate.
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Tasting Panel
The presence of striking acidity within a depth of boysenberries and cola makes for one dynamic red. White pepper–sprinkled Luxardo cherries go earthbound with mushrooms and dried leaves before the remarkably savory finish leaves a fine trace of plum skin on the palate.
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Wine Enthusiast
This full-bodied wine is deep and flavorful, topping black-fruit flavors with layers of complex black-tea and forest-floor accents. The mouthfeel is broad but grippy, showing moderate tannins and good acidity. Best through 2027.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2017 Domaine Anderson Estate Pinot Noir is bright and zesty. TASTING NOTES: This wine shines with its aromas and flavors of brisk red fruit and light chalkiness. Enjoy it with grilled salmon fillets. (Tasted: April 27, 2021, San Francisco, CA)
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The pale ruby colored 2017 Pinot Noir offers scents of tar, blackberries and smoked cranberries with earthy undertones and a touch of dried orange peel. The palate is light-bodied with spice and earth-laced flavors, fresh, soft and nuanced with a long 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.