92 Points - International Wine Report
92 Points - Wine Enthusiast
91 Points - Wine Spectator
Winemaking
Each vineyard block of Russian River Valley grapes were fermented separately in small lots to retain subtle differences and add complexity in the final blend. Aged in high-quality French oak barriques and blended just before bottling.
Vineyard
The Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is a blend of five vineyards and several clones. This wine showcases the beautiful expression of Pinot noir when grown in the cool climate and loamy soils offered within the Russian River Valley. Wohler Vineyard Pinot noir provides classic Russian River Valley characteristics from its site adjacent to the river. Riddle Vineyard, located in Green Valley, provides complexity and nuance. Bucher Vineyard, near Rochioli, adds rich structure and fresh fruit flavors. A small proportion of the renowned Reuling and UV Laguna Vineyards balance out the blend with intense aromas, earthy notes and silky tannins.
Vintage
The 2021 growing season offered optimal conditions in the Sonoma Coast to harvest grapes of exceptional quality. Brief heat waves in August and September ripened the grapes to ideal maturity as the weather stayed dry until major rains arrived October 22, after grapes were harvested. Yields were lower than average in 2021, with small berries and loose clusters creating wines of increased depth and concentration.
Analysis
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Vineyards: Wohler Vineyard, Riddle Vineyard, Bucher Vineyard, Reuling, UV Laguna Vineyard
Fermentation: Open-top fermentation, Native yeast
Aging: 50% New French Oak
pH: 3.64 TA: 5.9 g/L
Bottled unfined and unfiltered August 2022
Cases Produced: 1050
Alcohol: 14.2%
90 Points
Ruby-plum core with a light purple rim in the glass. The palate opens with cranberry, cherry fruit and wood spice dominate. Cherry and plum notes pump through with a medium-bodied texture. Smooth tannins and soft finish showcase its layered complexity.
92 Points
Aromas of red raspberry, jammed dark fruit, cinnamon spice and clove. Hints of sliced ripe plum, black tea and lavender oil adds to its complexity. Flavors of blueberry, elderberry, and cranberry are enhanced with oak spice and baking notes from the barrels. These flavors marry with soft tannins for a long and mouthwatering finish.
92 Points
Juicy blackberries and black cherries accented by mint and chocolate. Full-bodied, deeply colored, with a hint of white pepper, dried herbs and toasted bread. Delivers a substantial mid-palate of dark fruits, black tea, baked cherry, fruit preserves and licorice. Sophisticated and sumptuous. A great example of the varietal, brooding with depth and complexity. Notes of toast and oak, with integrated tannins and textural polish on the finish.
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