Winemaker Notes
A bright and delicious vintage of Bearwallow. Approachable though a touch firm at the moment.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Ample spice, herbes de Provence, Bing cherry, and pomegranate notes emerge from the 2016 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard. It’s medium-bodied, fresh, and nicely focused, with the more savory, mineral style of the Anderson Valley front and center. It has good structure yet is also accessible.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The most approachable of Rhys' vineyard-designate Pinot Noirs, the 2016 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard offers up expressive aromas of black plums, wild berries, peonies and rich soil. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it's supple and layered, with a juicy core of crunchy fruit, succulent acids and lovely declination. Already integrated and giving, drink it over the next decade or more.
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.