Gold Medal - Sonoma County Harvest Fair
Sourced from a 3 acres hilltop vineyard in heart of the Russian River Valley. A mix of Dijon clones with Pommard 4 and swan clones were planted for added complexity. The 2011 vintage was the first year the vineyard was managed by Jim Pratt. Following organic vineyard practices, the overall production was just under 100 cases.
The 2011 Willowbrook Estate Grown Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley offers light cranberry red color, with a hint of garnet. The nose is classic Russian River Pinot, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, blueberry, candied cranberry and violets. The palate is light and bright with Bing cherry, briar, and sweet cranberry flavors and a long, mocha finish.
All this bright, fresh, lively fruit is perfectly balanced by just enough oak to add structure and length. With good California frequently pushing $50 or even $60 and up, at a WineHeist price of just $28.99 this is a huge bargain. Load up on this one and enjoy over the next 2-3 years!
Vintage: 2011
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Fermentation: French Oak
Alcohol %: 13.5
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Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
94 Points
Juice explodes right out of the glass with its dark purple in color and bursting aromas of black cherry jam, boysenberry, raspberry and wild cherry interlaced with hints of baking spice, espresso bean, and toasted nut. The palate is ripe and juicy with flavors of dark cherry, huckleberry and raspberry perfectly integrated with notes of spice, dark chocolate, and a kiss of toasty oak.
