Winemaker Notes
Inviting and elegant dark ruby color with aromas of bright raspberries and cherries, hints of cranberry and rose petal. On the palate, balanced flavors of cherry, tea and clove open to reveal elegant and silky texture. Finishes with savory flavors, crushed raspberry and fresh mushrooms.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
This red's lively acidity adds nice energy, running underneath a core of black cherry and blood orange that is backed in turn by a potpourri accent on the finish. Nicely done for the vintage. Drink now through 2026. 600 cases made.
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.