Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
Smooth and lush with ripe cherry and lovely savory elements; mellow and seamless, long and charming.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
The 2013 Fel Anderson Valley Pinot Noir exhibits the brightness of this grape variety in this approved viticultural area. The wine's fresh red fruit flavors and crisp palate presence make it a natural choice with lightly grilled salmon. Drinks well now. (Tasted: September 9, 2016, San Francisco, CA)
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.