Winemaker Notes
The Savoy vineyard within Anderson valley proves year after year to be an enticing bottling. Located just north of the town of Philo at the base of the hills, this is the cooler part of Anderson Valley. The vines were planted between 1991-1993 on beds of Pinole and Boont loams over Franciscan shale. Four different fermenters were blended to produce this wine, including a 100% whole cluster fermenter. Every lot had a significant depth of concentration, color, and complexity. The wine then ages for roughly 16 months in French oak, 20-25% new.
Professional Ratings
-
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2015 Pinot Noir Savoy Vineyard lives up to its name, offering a savory, complex style in its dried cherry and strawberry fruits, earth, and dried herb-laced aromas and flavors. It’s vibrant and fresh on the palate, with integrated acidity and ripe tannin.
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.