Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2011 Pinot Noir Ten Degrees exhibits a denser color than the generic Anderson Valley cuvée as well as nice, broad, velvety, blackcurrant and black cherry notes, sweet tannin, medium body, a deliciously concentrated, lush mouthfeel, an endearing texture and plumpness, and Pinot opulence.
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Wine Spectator
Rich and full-bodied, notably dry and tannic, with deep, extracted dried berry, steeped black tea, forest floor and stemmy berry and espresso notes. Gains on the finish, with the tannins lending traction.
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.