Winemaker Notes
This spectacular wine is the proverbial velvet fist in an iron glove, with a hearty fruit core of Santa Rosa plum, red currant and raspberry, all framed by ripe, yet substantial, tannins and toasty French oak-inspired notes of vanilla. The complexity builds throughout the mid-palate and finish, where hints of supple leather mingle with a mélange of exotic spices, including cardamom, cinnamon and anise.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Subtlety and a savory quality help this wine stand out from the rest of the Goldeneye lineup. It has meaty, slightly peppery aromas along with subtle cherry scents, a plush, almost soft texture and delicious, moderately ripe flavors like pomegranate and black cherry.
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Wine Spectator
Shades of anise and black licorice color the dusty wild berry and cherry notes in this deceptively complex mix of flavors. Firm and cedary, with an expansive finish. Drink now through 2021. 702 cases made.
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.