Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
The 2014 Goldeneye Gowan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir is impressive. The wine, built from a base of red and blueberry aromas and flavors, shows that Anderson Valley Pinots can show strength and still maintain a delicate balance. Its richness makes it an excellent match with a leg of lamb. (Tasted: March 6, 2017, San Francisco, CA)
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Wine Enthusiast
Substantial and smoky, this full-bodied wine has a vivid oak component. Wood smoke and toasted-bread aromas meet ripe black-cherry flavors on the palate, plus clove and cinnamon on the finish. It's delicious in a bold, rich style.
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.