Winemaker Notes
This wine is terrifically complex with a layered nose of berry, tangerine, and spice box notes which jump from the glass. Hints of five-spice and hoisin add a depth and complexity that is beguiling. Fat and rich in the mouth, the wine fills the palate with fruit and savory elements and finishes with a tea-like sensation. Subtle acidity supports the broad mouthfeel and lets the grandeur of this offering unfold on the tongue.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
A demure rose petal aroma leads to richer tones of cola, cinnamon and dark cherry in this soft, sublime red that is both plush and expansive in texture. Complex spice and citrus contribute additional intrigue and make for an inviting, balanced and structured experience that finishes crisp in acidity.
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.