Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
“In 2009, these were four-year-old vines,” Ted Lemon recalls. “We later ripped out One Acre and replanted due to phylloxera.” He also notes that 2009, like 2012, was a warm, generous vintage. “I wanted to show 2009 next to 2012, the riper vintages,” he explains. "I feel like 2009 shows more richness than 2012. It’s opulent.” The 2009 Pinot Noir One Acre is in its peak drinking window, with a seamless blend of primary fruit and tertiary complexity and an approachable structure. On the nose, dried cranberries and smoked cherries mingle with wafts of tobacco, mushrooms, decaying leaves, wild fennel and bitters. The medium- to full-bodied palate pairs powerful, concentrated flavors with supple, silky tannins and juicy acidity, and it has a very long, nuanced finish.
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James Suckling
Pretty, spicy, complex and mature. This medium-bodied wine is alive in flavors of grilled plums, baked cherries, black tea and savory herbs, on moderate tannins and good acidity for a mouthfeel that's still lively and fresh. Almost delicate now from aging, yet so interesting and filigree.
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Vinous
The 2009 Pinot Noir One Acre is now fully mature, even though it has good depth. Dark red cherry fruit, worn-in leather, spice, dried herbs and menthol all show the gentle patina of age. Any remaining bottles need to be finished. Ted and Heidi Lemon purchased the vineyard from Rich Savoy in 2016. The vines were only four years old at the time.
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.