Winemaker Notes
The 2015 vintage was a low-yielding vintage that result in concentrated flavors. Bright ruby in the glass, the nose on the 2015 Wentzel is packed with pure red fruit aromas and a hint of Pennyroyal – a mint that grows wild across Anderson Valley. On the palate, the bright acidity is balanced by a medium weight and flavors of bing cherry, cola nut, and a hint of vanilla bean. The red fruit flavors carry through the lengthy finish, a hallmark of Wentzel Pinot Noir.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This exciting wine blends aromas of black fruit, Asian spice and forest floor for a complex, layered and enticing whole. It is medium in body but filled to the brim with flavors of cherry, soy, black tea and clove. It shows a gripping, nervy texture on the palate, but softens enough on the finish for a lingering close.
Editors' Choice
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.