Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This lovely, fragrant wine is abundantly fruity and subtly spicy, blending ripe strawberry and red-cherry flavors with absolutely tempting cinnamon, clove and cedar spices. It has a generous, mouthfilling texture lifted by a touch of tannin and fresh acidity.
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Wine Spectator
Features a minerally core, with linear red fruit and spice flavors, backed by fresh acidity. Loamy hints emerge on the moderately racy finish.
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.