Winemaker Notes
The 2019 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is deep ruby in color, with enticing aromas of black cherry, cola, cedar and hibiscus. The palate is vibrant, with juicy berry, cherry and plum flavors joined by caramel and vanilla on the finish.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Blackberries and blueberries with red roses and other perfumes. Some wet earth, too. Full-bodied and tight with a solid structure and a long, tight finish. Holding back for now. Best after 2025.
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Wine Enthusiast
This tremendously structured, ageworthy wine is interwoven with cranberry, strawberry and darker berry undertones, with a tart, savory edge of black tea and forest floor. The oak is both prominent and spiced, adding hints of toffee and more richness. Enjoyable now, this will take on additional intrigue over time. Enjoy best from 2029–2034.
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Wine Spectator
Delivers a fruity aroma, with a lively basket of raspberry, cherry and dried fig flavors that are backed by crisp acidity and tannins. Shows notes of underbrush in the midpalate, which lead into a fresh, rich and savory finish. Drink now
While the Russian River Valley is a large appellation with multiple climate zones and soil types, it is best known for cool-climate varieties, with Pinot Noir as the most celebrated. The grapes benefit from a reliable late afternoon flow of Pacific Ocean fog through the Petaluma Gap and along the Russian River Valley that ensures slow and steady ripening and the preservation of grape acidity. Today many of California’s most highly regarded Pinot Noir vineyards are in the Russian River Valley, along with its sub-appellation, Green Valley.
Historically Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs had bright red fruit and delicate earthy, mineral notes. But changes in viticultural and winemaking practices have led to stylistic changes in some of the region’s wines. Adjustments to canopy management, among other techniques, have resulted in riper fruit and bolder wines as well. These show flavors of black cherry, blackberry, cola, spice and darker, loamy earth tones, accenting traditional Pinot Noir notes of strawberry, raspberry and light cherry.