Winemaker's Notes
There has been plenty of hype about this vintage for Pinot Noir, so there is little need to add to that. Over the years we have been able to establish some wonderful long-term relationships with vineyard sites that are complimentary rather than antagonistic in a blend. Add to that a growing season like 2008 with fewer issues to overcome…what’s not to like? It is a little richer, denser and darker in color than the 2008 vintage. Floral, red, black and blue fruits all take their turn and change places with the toasty, earth/loam and lightly herbal notes like a slowly changing kaleidoscope crossed with a 1960’s overhead projector liquid light show with colored mineral oil and alcohol. It is not quite as intensely concentrated as the 2007 on entry at least, but the flavors swell, reveal their secrets and linger on the lips for what seem like an eternity [this is starting to sound too much like a formula romance novel]. I think it will take a couple of years longer to hit its stride than the previous two vintages, so I would plan to cellar this and consider working on any 2005-2008’s during the next 4-5 years before getting seriously into this vintage. The reward will be substantial, I think – kind of like with the 2004 Fort Ross High Slopes Pinot Noir (our last vintage). It is not that dense, but the upside to patience on wines like these is significant.
Judi Scherrer –
Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar – May 2012
Bright violet color. Spicy, mineral-accented red currant and strawberry aromas, with a hint of fresh rose. Clean and vibrant, showing sappy red fruit character and a strong note of spicecake. Finishes quite long, with vibrant red berry and floral pastille flavors and lingering minerality. 91 points. Josh Raynolds
Judi Scherrer –
Allen Meadows Burghound – October 2013
An exuberantly spicy, ripe and fresh nose offers up notes of plum and black cherry along with menthol and anise hints. The plush and dense medium-bodied flavors possess fine volume and good detail before culminating in a powerful and palate coasting finish. This is a big Pinot with plenty of muscle and tannin-buffering dry extract. 90/2017+ Allen Meadows
Judi Scherrer –
Wine Spectator – March 2014
Mature, with vibrant sour black cherry, raspberry, anise and licorice notes. This is complex and well-made, ending with firm tannins that keep the flavors dancing on the finish. 90 points. Jim Laube