Winemaker Notes
The RSM vineyard has been farmed and certified organic since 2017. A warm spring resulted in early bud break and an early harvest. Yields were light after successive years of drought. This offering is a blend of Dijon clones 115, 667 and Pommard. Warm and inviting aromas of pie crust, cherries, cream, resinous pine, and damp redwood forest floor. Flavors of ripe cherries, huckleberry, cola, caramel, and mushroom broth, finishing with hints of nutmeg. This medium bodied wine is round on the palate with well-integrated bright acidity and fine cocoa tannins. Aged for 10 months in all French oak barrels (33% new).
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This wine is concentrated, with aromas of dark cherry, plum, potpourri, orange pekoe black tea and toasted almond on the nose. Flavors of black plum and cherry-rhubarb are interwoven with pomegranate, orange zest, toasted vanilla and a dry, supple finish. Pair with grilled salmon and pomegranate jus.
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.