Winemaker's Notes
The 2018 vintage has proven to be an exceptional in our area, from Chardonnay to Cabernet Sauvignon. Pinot Noir, in particular is showing grace, perfume and substance. Here is the first release of our many 2018 Pinot Noir bottlings, which is achieving everything we could ever hope for regarding a vintage.
While almost entirely from Russian River Valley fruit, this speaks less clearly of that origin and borrowing words from Chuck Furuya, MS, simply exudes ‘deliciousness.’ Pretty red cherry with notes of dried cherries, rose hips, hibiscus and a hint of patchouli greet the nose. There is a seamless progression of the aromatics as well as how the wine unfolds on the palate with a very long finish and great continuity. We have been enjoying this with fresh local salmon. It is rather perverse that a winery’s entry level wine is so satisfyingly in line with the ‘fancier’ bottlings. To me, the fancy stuff must show the signature of the area or specific site. However, no matter what, the wine must be delicious and compelling.Â
