Winemaker's Notes
The vineyard site where the grapes came from are at a crossroad between Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast. It shows characteristics of both AVA’s: Generosity of fruit from the RRV with tannic and acidic structure from the coast.
2016 gave us another energetic vintage with many seedless berries that were harvested before they went ‘over the top’, which is easy to do as the itty ones can dry up in a snap of the fingers. The great success with the 2015 vintage under these same conditions made it much easier for me to forge ahead with the higher level of seedless berries.
Black pepper, blue fruits that lead to red fruits on the nose. Savory, fruity, savory, then fruity again, then mouth-watering on the middle and finish where the black pepper and blue fruit reappear with another toggle of savory/mouth-watering.
Judi Scherrer –
Vinous – April 2020
The 2016 Pinot Noir High Slopes is another stellar wine in this range from Fred Scherrer. Black cherry, game, mint, licorice and dried flowers give the High Slopes a distinct wild character, but there is more than enough fruit to provide balance. This is one of the more savory wines in the lineup. I would prefer to enjoy it along similarly hearty fare. This is a gorgeous Russian River Pinot. 94 points. Antonio Galloni
Judi Scherrer –
California Grapevine – February 2021
Medium-light to medium ruby color; attractive, deep, ripe, fragrant, floral, black cherry fruit aroma with hints of cinnamon, mocha, herbal tea, and rose petal; medium to mediumfull body; rich, ripe, elegant, red fruit flavors with nice acid balance and a silky mouthfeel; medium tannin; lingering aftertaste. Very highly recommended. My Score: 93/100 Nick Ponomareoff