Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2016 Pinot Noir Wendling Vineyard also comes from a cooler vineyard, this one in Anderson Valley. Made from a mix of clones (Pommard, 667, Calera, 828, and 115) and aged 16 months in 56% new French oak, it offers complex notes of dark cherry fruits, spice, and loamy soil as well as medium-bodied richness, plenty of texture, and a great finish. It’s a complete, balanced, incredibly high-quality Pinot Noir to enjoy over the coming decade.
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Tasting Panel
Spiced oak and cinnamon cherries form an exquisite perfume that leads into a more savory palate. Nutmeg, clove, and cranberry are filled with a mocha-cedar center. Dried heather adds flavor to the wine’s textural weight.
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.