Winemaker Notes
MCM stands for Max, Chris and Myles and doubles for the roman numerals of 1900, which when added to '88 marks their birth year of 1988. Named appropriately for an exuberant single vineyard Pinot Noir from the famed vineyard formerly known as Keefer Ranch.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The MCM88 is an acronym for the initials of the three partners and their shared birthyear of 1988. It is entirely from the Perry Ranch Vineyard, which was formerly known as Keefer Ranch. The 2019 Pinot Noir MCM88 offers concentrated and classic aromas of candied violets, cherry cola, and forested earth, while the palate is full of black raspberry liqueur, pine, and savory herbs. Drink 2024-2034.
While the Russian River Valley is a large appellation with multiple climate zones and soil types, it is best known for cool-climate varieties, with Pinot Noir as the most celebrated. The grapes benefit from a reliable late afternoon flow of Pacific Ocean fog through the Petaluma Gap and along the Russian River Valley that ensures slow and steady ripening and the preservation of grape acidity. Today many of California’s most highly regarded Pinot Noir vineyards are in the Russian River Valley, along with its sub-appellation, Green Valley.
Historically Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs had bright red fruit and delicate earthy, mineral notes. But changes in viticultural and winemaking practices have led to stylistic changes in some of the region’s wines. Adjustments to canopy management, among other techniques, have resulted in riper fruit and bolder wines as well. These show flavors of black cherry, blackberry, cola, spice and darker, loamy earth tones, accenting traditional Pinot Noir notes of strawberry, raspberry and light cherry.