Winemaker Notes
The Wendling Vineyard is located 335-500 feet elevation on a south-facing slope just nine miles from the Pacific Ocean near the hamlet of the Navarro within the Anderson Valley. This is the most northwesterly vineyard in the AVA and is farmed using organic and biodynamic methods, though it is not certified. The soils are red and well-drained, shallow sandy loam, sandstones, and shales.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
While the 2015 Pinot Noir Wendling Vineyard doesn’t have the Block E designation found on the 2016, it’s the same block, which is more red soils and one of the steepest parts of the vineyard. Rose petals, raspberries, exotic flowers, and wild strawberry notes flow to a medium-bodied, juicy, elegant, utterly seamless 2015 that will continue evolving gracefully for another decade.
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.