Winemaker Notes
The 2017 Rhys Vineyards Alesia Anderson Valley Pinot Noir shows floral and fresh herb notes. Already drinking well.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Mulled cherries, blackberries, crushed flowers, and sappy underbrush notes all emerge from the 2017 Pinot Noir Anderson Valley Alesia, a medium-bodied, rounded, nicely balanced Pinot Noir that has loads of character. It should drink nicely for 4-6 years, although bottles wouldn't last that long at my house.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2017 Alesia Pinot Noir Anderson Valley is pale to medium ruby-purple with a pretty nose of autumn leaves, bark and cinnamon stick with black cherries, blackberries, raspberry preserves and woodsmoke. The palate is light to medium-bodied, delicate and earthy with juicy acidity and a soft frame, fleshing out to sweet berry flavors on the long finish.
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.