Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
The fruit intensity and depth in this full-bodied and beautifully balanced wine is gorgeous to taste. Black cherry, red cherry and cassis flavors run through it, while velvety tannins add a great mouthfeel. A nice sense of viscosity carries through to the finish.
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Wine Spectator
Combines elegance with finesse, featuring a core of spicy wild berry and raspberry flavors. Light lavender and subtle crushed rock details give this a cleansing aftertaste.
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.