Winemaker Notes
This elegant wine has rich notes of wild strawberries, cherries and plums, with bright acidity, smooth silky, tannins and hint of smoke and toast from the oak barrel aging.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2019 Pinot Noir Grand Reserve has a medium ruby color and savory aromas of black cherries, forest floor, potpourri and cardamom. The medium-bodied palate is energetic and fresh with intense, earth-laced fruits and a long, spicy finish.
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Wine Enthusiast
Very rich, extra-ripe fruit flavors fill out this full-bodied wine, getting support from mild tannins and ample baking spices from French barrels for a broad, rounded texture.
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.