Winemaker Notes
The Fog-Eater is their appellation blend Pinot Noir where they select several Anderson Valley sites and bring them together to express the unique cool climate characteristics of Anderson Valley. The aim has always been to layer and elevate complexity and showcase this very special northern coastal valley. The 2019 vintage is showing incredible transparency with an ethereal quality from the front to the back of the palate. They combined four deep end vineyards in this 2019 bottling. With a focus on the Deep End of Anderson Valley, the true cooler end of the valley, the red fruit character leans into the cranberry and pomegranate with sage and red rose petals and distinctive forest mushroom character. all with bright acidity that keeps your mouth watering and wanting more.
Pair with roasted game hen and herbed mashed potatoes or grilled salmon with roasted butternut squash.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Rose petal and mint accents merge with deep, concentrated black-fruit flavors in this medium- to full-bodied wine that is laced with velvety, fine-grained tannins. It combines superb balance with layers of fruit and subtle spices for a very compelling palate. Best from 2024. Cellar Selection
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.