Winemaker Notes
Another classic Olivet Lane Pinot Noir vintage, the 2018 gracefully integrates aromas of red cherry, black plum, pomegranate are prominent, harmonized by cola, cinnamon and wet forest floor. In the mouth, the sweetness of black cherry and grilled tomato are complimented by tarragon, basil, and a long finish of browned butter and baking spices.
Professional Ratings
-
Wine Enthusiast
This complex, layered and subtle wine combines leafy, tea-like cedar and tobacco aromas with cherry and strawberry flavors and mild cinnamon and anise accents. The wine is attractive for its restraint and diversity in flavors, along with an easy, elegant texture.
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.