Winemaker Notes
The 2013 Pinot Noir from Russian River is a blend from two vineyards that both lie at approximately 700 feet above sea level, near Occidental. Both are planted in Goldridge soils. The vines are trained on a vertical trellis system (VSP) on north eastern facing slopes that offer protection from the hot summer afternoon sun.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2015 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley simply sings of vibrant black cherry and black raspberry aromas with hints of dried lavender, tilled black soil and red roses plus a waft of dark chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the palate with expressive perfumed black cherries, framed by grainy tannins, finishing long with an herbal lift coming through.
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.