Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Delicious fruit aromas and abundant spices waft up from the glass. The flavors follow suit, with ripe plum, strawberry and cinnamon all well supported by firm acidity and a medium-to-full body. This is a well-rounded wine that's easy to enjoy. Editors' Choice.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
I tasted four upcoming Pinto Noir releases. My favorite of the four is the Chambolle-Musigny-like 2013 Pinot Noir Jackson Estate Anderson Valley. This wine (3,600 cases) is an excellent value in complex, Burgundian-style Pinot Noir, with notes of raspberries, a hint of blue fruits, forest floor and spice offered in a medium-bodied, lush, elegant, pure 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.