Smith Story Helluva Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 Front Bottle Shot
Smith Story Helluva Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 Front Bottle Shot Smith Story Helluva Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

Beautifully fresh but intense. A bit shy now, hints of ripe cherries, fresh cranberry and dark blackberry notes. A graceful and delicate pinot noir you are going to love (again!). A beautiful example of a cool climate Pinot Noir with great balanced fruit and acidity. Cellar this for a few years if you dare.

Image for  content section
View all products
Image for Anderson Valley Pinot Noir content section
View all products

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.

SPRSMSHELL16C_2016 Item# 527644