Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 500-case 2014 Pinot Noir Anderson Valley comes all from the estate's Bearwallow Vineyard, which they've grown from an original six acres planted to now 32 acres in total. Mostly destemmed and aged all in old oak, it offers a spice-laced bouquet of framboise, black raspberries, dried herbs and underbrush to go with a medium-bodied, beautifully textured style on the palate. It's already drinking nicely, but should keep for 5-7 years.
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.