2009, Best Vintage Ever - James Laube, Wine Spectator
Gold Medal - Sonoma County Harvest Fair
Exceptional - Dan Berger
Just when we think we have run out of sources for Pinot from the exceptional 2009 vintage, it seems we always come upon a new winery with just a little bit left. This 2009 Sandole Pinot is made from estate grown fruit on the tiny, 6-acre Oehlman Ranch in the heart of the Russian River Valley. This beautiful wine won a gold medal at the highly competitive Sonoma County Fair, and it is easy to see why, as it shows remarkable elegance and depth. Single-vineyard Russian River Pinot is among the most expensive red wines outside of Napa Cab, yet we are able to offer this one for under $30. With what should be a long life ahead of it, this is one to stock up on now, and enjoy watching it age.
The 2009 Sandole Oehlman Ranch Pinot Noir is light garnet in color, with an intriguing nose of huckleberry, black cherry, and graphite, with floral undertones. The palate shows cherry, violets, black pepper, and red berries. Vibrant and bright, this Pinot has a seductively smooth mouthfeel, but without the accompanying lushness that comes from too little acid. This touch of tartness allows it to pair gracefully with a wide range of food, and should lead to a long life in the cellar. Enjoy this one now, or cellar for 5 years or more.
Vineyards: Oehlman Ranch
Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Appelation: Russian River Valley
Harvest Date: September 22, 2009
Ph: 3.61
Total Acidity: 0.63
Alcohol: 14.7%
Cooperage: 100% French Oak 35% New
Release Date: May, 15 2011
95 Points
Rich and full-bodied, packed with dark fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plum, and dark cherry. Notes of cocoa, cedar, and warm spice add complexity, while firm tannins and a touch of volcanic minerality reflect the bold characteristics of Calistoga’s terroir. Full-bodied in texture, and remarkably velvety. The tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit.
92 Points
Deep floral notes (violets), blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. Driven by the mountain's steep, cool-climate terroir, it balances rich notes of blackberry and pomegranate seamlessly intertwined with dark plum, cocoa dust, and roasted mocha, hints of roasted mocha and spice undertones add depth to its complex profile, culminating in a bold, yet elegant finish.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
