Winemaker Notes
The flagship FEL Pinot Noir is always a reflection of the beautiful site from which the grapes are grown. Savoy Vineyard is perched above the Navarro River bench looking out at the last stand of old-growth redwoods in Anderson Valley. The wildness of the forest is reflected in the wine with aromas of conifer needles, native mint, and wild brambleberries. The nose also includes notes of black cherry, cedar, and cinnamon. Texturally, Savoy Pinot Noir is always a compelling wine with silky tannins that give great length to the mouth and support flavors of cherry, blackberry, and black tea.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Handsome black-fruit flavors give a wonderful focus to this concentrated, well-balanced and moderately tannic wine. It's a baritone of deep black cherries that can also hit higher notes of toasted oak, spice and sage.
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.