Winemaker's Notes
We first worked with this vineyard in 2006 and have focused on a portion of this complex 10-acre vineyard that suits our style perfectly. Only a portion of it is bottled separately as the rest of the barrels are absolutely needed to complete our Sonoma County and/or Russian River Valley bottlings. It has been a pleasure to work with Glen and Pam Gunsalus over these past 15 or so vintages.
A bit more dark-fruited than 2013-2015, this shows more depth, great texture and length. Candied-apple, plums, hibiscus tea and fresh aromas with high-toned perfume like ripe apple with a touch of freshly cut parsnip circle back to hibiscus tea and darker fruits of black cherry on the mouth with a nice, full body.
Judi Scherrer –
Vinous – April 2020
The 2016 Pinot Noir Gunsalus Vineyard is laced with sweet red cherry, mint, wild flowers, orange zest and crushed rocks, all of which give the wine notable vibrancy and energy. This mid-weight, sculpted Pinot has enough freshness to drink well for a number of years. Readers should expect a slightly nervous style. 94 Points. Antonio Galloni
Judi Scherrer –
California Grapevine – August 2020
Medium-light ruby; attractive, earthy, floral, red cherry and raspberry fruit aroma with hints of baking spice and forest floor; medium body; rich, textured, nicely balanced, red and dark fruit flavors with good depth, bright acidity, and an elegant, silky mouthfeel; medium tannin; lingering aftertaste. Shows some maturity and very appealing to drink now or over the next year or two. Very highly recommended. My score 91 points. Nick Ponomareoff
Judi Scherrer –
Vinous – January 2020
The 2016 Pinot Noir Gunsalus Vineyard is laced with sweet red cherry, mint, wild flowers, orange zest and crushed rocks, all of which give the wine notable vibrancy and energy. This mid-weight, sculpted Pinot has enough freshness to drink well for a number of years. Readers should expect a lightly nervous style. 94 points. Antonio Galloni.