Winemaker Notes
Big, rich and assertive. Stormin’ delivers a deep complexity of characters from a blend of blocks and clones. Dark chocolate and black cherry aromas mingle with warm toasted chestnuts and candied ginger. Floral lavender and savory mushroom notes transition to a bold texture, solid acidity and round tannins which give way to a generous finish.
Professional Ratings
-
Wine Enthusiast
Silky and polished, this elegant wine offers restrained oak aromas and flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg backed by vibrant red- and black-cherry flavors. Great balance from light tannins and good acidity give it an appetizing mouthfeel and will help it age well.
-
Wine Spectator
Big and rich, offering well-structured flavors of red currant and plum tart that show notes of forest floor, followed by loamy touches on the direct, savory finish, with hints of dried mint. Drink now through 2025.
-
Jeb Dunnuck
The light ruby-hued 2018 Pinot Noir Stormin' Estate Vineyard comes from a site in the Anderson Valley and is medium-bodied, with a savory, spicy style, plenty of ripe red cherry and strawberry fruits, and a soft, short, yet enjoyable 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.