Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This is a full-bodied, ripe and mouthfilling wine that offers generous black-plum and black-cherry flavors, a smooth texture and a lingering finish. The aroma is nicely spiced in new oak accents that meld well with the black fruits on the palate.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
A lovely example of this grape variety from the cool Anderson Valley, the 2015 Goldeneye Pinot Noir exhibits lively pomegranate and dried herbs aromas and flavors. Pair this wine with a spit-roasted leg of lamb in its natural juices accented with fresh rosemary. (Tasted: December 22, 2017, San Francisco, CA USA)
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.