Winemaker Notes
Heady aromatics of black currant, rose water, and blueberries leap from the glass of this intensely perfumed Pinot noir. Exotic flavors of tamarind, marion berry, and cola mingle with hints of coffee, mint, and violet. The mouth is layered and richly textured,with a long,silky palate that leads to a long finish.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This concentrated and fruitpacked wine from a storied vineyard walks the line between ripeness and restraint. Flavors of blackcherry and blackberry fill the palate, bolstered by a mildly firm feel. It offers plenty to appreciate now and is worth cellaring through 2024. Cellar Selection.
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Tasting Panel
Lovely cherry nose that echoes with depth on the palate alongside bright acidity and soft spice. Elegant, balanced, and long, it’s a lovely Mendocino wine from Cliff Lede.
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.