Winemaker Notes
FEL's flagship Pinot Noir is a reflection of the Savoy Vineyard that they call home. Perched between the last stand of old-growth redwoods in Anderson Valley and a flank of hills shrouded in oaks and chapparal, Savoy is a study in terroir. Like the vineyard, the wine’s texture is polished with delicate edges. The nearby woods come through in the spiced plum and sumac nose, while the rugged California hills are alive in the concentrated boysenberry and date palate, with a lingering floral quality of rose petal.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Very ripe fruit and an impression of sweetness pervade this fully ripe, rich and delicious wine from a noted site. Soft tannins and a full body embrace red and black cherries, spearmint and redwood forest nuances for an indulgent and complex expression. Best from 2027.
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.