Winemaker's Notes
Both the soils and the nuance of climate vary somewhat from the vineyards that make up our Russian River Valley blend. When I began working with this site, it was a surprise that it did not fit perfectly in that blend. Now, I revel in its uniqueness, thinking of it as ‘a different kind of good.’
All from what is called ‘Pommard’ clone (a long-time workhorse in this region), it has a fuller body and more dark and earthy tones than our Russian River Valley bottling. As I said last year, it gains its ‘angles’ side of the balance equation more from tannin and a little less from acidity than the more westerly sites in the Russian River area making this wine a perfect companion for lamb or even beef. Another example of less being more, this was also racked zero times from the time it was barreled after pressing until bottling. The extra time on yeast lees really envelops any edges to the substantial tannins this clone/site possesses. More of the savory, Gevery-like characteristics are here as a result. Dark fruits, fresh earth, savory/saline notes and a long finish are in store. It drinks really well at the moment and should do so for another 5-10 years perhaps.
Judi Scherrer –
California Grapevine – June 2017
Medium-light ruby; attractive, forward, fragrant, earthy, cherry fruit aroma; medium to medium-full body; rich, ripe, earthy, cherry and dark berry fruit flavors with good acid balance and some plushness in the mouthfeel; medium tannin; lingering aftertaste. Very appealing now, though worthy of a few more years of bottle aging. Very highly recommended. My Score: 17 [91/100] Nick Ponomareff
Judi Scherrer –
Vinous – August 2017
Scherrer’s 2013 Pinot Noir King Vineyard is bold, powerful and immediate. Sweet red cherry and plum fruit make a strong first impression. Round, supple and fruit-forward, the King is a typical Russian River Pinot. Although it doesn’t have the layers of the very best wines in this range, it is nevertheless nicely balanced. 91 points. Antonio Galloni