Winemaker's Notes
Harvested at full, appropriate ripeness a few days before the early October rains, this is another Pinot Noir (like our Russian River Valley Pinot Noir) that defies the reputation of 2011 being a ‘difficult’ vintage because it was ‘in the barn’ before things got tough. In fact, it benefitted from a long cool growing season and was harvested at exactly the level of ripeness we desire. Primarily from the far Northern Sonoma Coast which is a tad warmer than the Southern Sonoma Coast, it exhibits a somewhat broad presentation, along with signature savory notes, some red and blackish fruit. It is fairly rich (consistent with its name) with a very long finish yet is tempered by its great verve, energy and acidity which is the hallmark of the cool growing season of 2011. Think of a ‘big brother’ who works out regularly and eats right. The dancer Gene Kelly immediately comes to mind here. However, the grapes were not actually allowed to be ‘Singin’ in the Rain.’
Judi Scherrer –
PinotFile – November 2015
A blend of fruit from a vineyard in Annapolis and one in Bodega. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Charming aromas of cherry, rose, and sous-bois. Intensely flavored yet has the comportment of a ballerina on the palate, with luscious flavors of perfectly ripened dark red cherries and berries wrapped in suave tannins. Impeccably balanced with a charge of cherry extract on the persistent finish. Perfect to drink now, but this wine has the structure and harmony to age beautifully. I recently (mid-2015) consumed a 2007 vintage ‘Big Brother’ and it still had many years of life ahead. Score: 94 Rusty Gaffney