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%
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
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