Winemaker Notes
A classically styled Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley, the Calegari Vineyard is all about red fruit. Wild strawberry, dark cherry, dried cranberry, and hints of red raspberry are layered with hints of wood spices and aromas of a bouquet of flowers. The palate features citrus peel and red fruit elements with a strong impression of tea. Enjoy this wine with smoked duck breast smoked with tea.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
An opening aroma of forest floor announces this wine’s savory core, dusted in crushed rock and rose petal. Wild strawberry, dark cherry, blood orange and pomegranate provide a lovely brightness and con- trast the thick yet supple tannins.
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James Suckling
A well-balanced nose of red and black fruit, sage and violets. Full-bodied with steady-handed acidity. Fine, silky tannins. Delightful ripe fruit and with a pleasant, herbaceous note. Nice, long and chalky finish.
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.