Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Connoisseurs' Guide
There is an extra measure of substance and size to be found in the Lee Vineyard offering, yet the wine maintains very good varietal focus in light of its ripeness and is a deep and involving expression of Pinot Noir. Its somewhat big-shouldered style directs it to drinking with more substantial fare, and, while it is fleshy and full, it is solidly structured and should improve for five or more years.
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Wine Enthusiast
Ripe and delicious in fruit, this Pinot tastes like juicy raspberries, cherries and persimmons drizzled with brown sugar and vanilla. A touch of heat shows on the finish.
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Wine Spectator
Strikes a nice balance between ripe, fresh cherry-berry fruit and minerally fresh earth touches, keeping its focus on the berry themes. The tannins are integrated. Drink now through 2020.
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.