Winemaker Notes
Silky and re ned, this vintage is like red velvet. The aromas start this sensual wine off with fresh, ripe strawberry and rose petal. The wine continues with chocolate raspberry, cassis, and luxardo cherry, with a hint of cedar on the palate. A bright acidity up front melts away on the nish and leaves with well-integrated tannins.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This concentrated wine offers aromas of black cherry compote, black strawberry, nutmeg, violets and dried chicory on the nose. The flavors on the palate are black currant confiture and blood orange interlaced with allspice, star anise, pomegranate, dried herbs, toasted walnut and a long, supple finish.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Like most of these Pinots, the 2021 Pinot Noir Jolie was raised for 16 months in 15% new French oak. Pouring a youthful ruby red color, the nose opens to notes of fresh sage, ripe cherries, fresh violets, and forest herbs. Medium-bodied, it has elegant, refined tannins, even acidity, and a juicy ripe feel that lasts long on the palate. There’s a floral side to this wine that lasts all the way through, and it has a rather long finish.
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.