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%
97 Points
Rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with notes of baking spices, licorice, coffee, and chocolate that interlace seamlessly with complexity, creating a wine that is both structured and delightfully supple, achieving an ideal balance of tension and grace. Artfully composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 17% Cabernet Franc, resulting in harmonious depth and freshness.
PDF