Winemaker Notes
The wine exhibits bright aromatics and flavors that are a hallmark of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir. In addition to the abundant cherry on the nose, pomegranate, Mission fig, and sandal wood are detectable. The mouth is loaded with bright red fruit and spice flavors, bringing to mind a raspberry coulis with hints of mint. Plenty of fresh acidity fleshes out the palate and brings verve to the finish.
Professional Ratings
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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.
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Wine Spectator
Unctuous and ripe flavors of dark plum, cassis and cherry tart are filled with crunchy acidity and supported by fine-grained tannins. Creamy midpalate, with a long, plush and well-spiced finish that is loaded with sanguine richness.
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James Suckling
The most complex of the Fel pinots from 2017. This has everything from wildflowers to red cherries and berries. Sappy, foresty notes, toasted baking spices, anise and earth. The palate has a layered and complex feel, too. Plenty of ripe red cherries and berries on offer. Long and succulent finish. Drink or hold.
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Wine Enthusiast
Precise and very focused, this medium- to full-bodied wine offers vibrant red- and black-fruit flavors, great acidity and moderate tannins. Delicate oak spices trim the delicious, energized fruit flavors and everything tastes balanced and well defined. Best through 2025.
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.