Winemaker Notes
The 2016 Savoy features an apple brown betty base note with hibiscus and cherry blossom aromas accenting. The flavors in the mouth are captivating with deep red fruit like a bing or maraschino cherry rolled in brown spices and candied orange with a broad, fleshy mid-palate. An orange, raspberry and a slight metallic tang linger on the medium length finish. Delicious and seamless this wine will age beautiful and is showing very well on release.
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.