Winemaker Notes
What began as an early warm vintage abruptly changed direction with a record setting heat wave over the Labor Day weekend. Normally this causes sugars to jump; strangely the vines shut down, and sugar accumulation ceased for two weeks. This extended hang time allowed acids to soften, and despite our fears, eventually sugars began to rise. This wine is a blend of three vineyards- 52% from Handley Estate Vineyard, 24 % from RSM Estate Vineyard, and 24% from Helluva Vineyard. The resulting wine is more lightly structured than the extracted 2016 vintage and more red fruit driven. Aromas of cola, violets, candy cap mushrooms, and clove. Flavors of red cherries, cranberries, hibiscus, and root beer, with hints of cinnamon and cardamom spices. Long and plush finish with soft tannin's and balanced acidity. Aged for 10 months in all French Oak barrels (25 % new).
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Very ripe, lush perfumed fruit flavors and a rounded, luxurious texture bring a lot of pleasure to this full-bodied wine. Subtle accents of cinnamon and nutmeg shade the tasty black- and red-cherry flavors while mild tannin's give just enough grip in the mouth.
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.