Winemaker Notes
Pinot Noir with a lot of Pinot “perfume” as well as interesting fresh raspberry, cola and cherry notes. Sleek and aromatic
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A creamy, soft pinot with strawberry, chocolate and light coffee. Some toffee undertones. Medium to full body. Subtle and balanced for the area.
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Wine Enthusiast
Donald Patz's blend of several sites and clones within the appellation, this hearty red is beautifully layered and complex. Wild strawberry, rhubarb, dried herb and black tea give it varietal distinction amidst an underlying tension of acidity. Thick tannin and oak weight contribute power.
While the Russian River Valley is a large appellation with multiple climate zones and soil types, it is best known for cool-climate varieties, with Pinot Noir as the most celebrated. The grapes benefit from a reliable late afternoon flow of Pacific Ocean fog through the Petaluma Gap and along the Russian River Valley that ensures slow and steady ripening and the preservation of grape acidity. Today many of California’s most highly regarded Pinot Noir vineyards are in the Russian River Valley, along with its sub-appellation, Green Valley.
Historically Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs had bright red fruit and delicate earthy, mineral notes. But changes in viticultural and winemaking practices have led to stylistic changes in some of the region’s wines. Adjustments to canopy management, among other techniques, have resulted in riper fruit and bolder wines as well. These show flavors of black cherry, blackberry, cola, spice and darker, loamy earth tones, accenting traditional Pinot Noir notes of strawberry, raspberry and light cherry.