Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine & Spirits
ic Sussman selects fruit from several of the older blocks at Savoy, planted from 1991 to ‘96, for this silken, refreshingly tangy pinot noir. It has the woodsy flavor of raspberries picked at the forest edge, along with a coastal salinity that brings to mind nori. Anderson Valley cool and spicy, this wine’s intensity emanates from its center, without any excess extract to block it. The fresh flavors last, predicting a long life ahead.
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Wine Spectator
Eric Sussman selects fruit from several of the older blocks at Savoy, planted from 1991 to ‘96, for this silken, refreshingly tangy pinot noir. It has the woodsy flavor of raspberries picked at the forest edge, along with a coastal salinity that brings to mind nori. Anderson Valley cool and spicy, this wine’s intensity emanates from its center, without any excess extract to block it. The fresh flavors last, predicting a long life ahead.
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.