Winemaker Notes
The 2020 brings through notes of black plum and cherry buffeted with earthy notes of bramble and forest floor with an impression of graham cracker on the nose. A fresh entry on the palate gives way to an unctuous mid-palate that finishes with bright acidity.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Juicy red fruit here with cherries, pink peppercorns and roasted strawberries. Some tobacco leaf. Tangy and fresh with a medium body and crunchy tannins.
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Wine Enthusiast
An all-around engaging Pinot Noir with fresh fruit notes of red and black cherry, plum and red currant complemented by earthier tones of forest floor and toasted wood. With a dusty tannic texture, vibrant acidity and vivacious intensity of aromas and flavors, this is an easy Pinot Noir to love.
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.