Winemaker Notes
Blend: 100% Pinot Noir
Professional Ratings
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2018 Alesia Pinot Noir Anderson Valley is sourced exclusively from the Bearwallow Vineyard, perennially making for one of the best value propositions for California Pinot Noir. The nose is harmonious and nuanced, balancing bright red fruits, autumn leaves and dried roses. The palate is medium-bodied with admirable richness and precision, concluding on an upright, tensile finish that's beginning to show the integration of its tannins.
Rating: 93+ -
Jeb Dunnuck
Readers looking for a great example of high-quality Anderson Valley Pinot Noir need look no further than the 2018 Pinot Noir Anderson Valley Alesia. Revealing a lighter ruby hue as well as textbook notes of dried red fruits, savory herbs, loamy soil, and new saddle leather, this beauty hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, a solid core of sweet fruit, and a great 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.