Russian River Valley

Vintage Notes

2019 may stand out as one of the more exceptional vintages in recent memory. Cooler temperatures and stable weather for most of the growing season allowed for slow maturation of flavors without any heat events spiking sugar accumulation in the berries. Although 2019 also saw the devastating Kincade fire in Sonoma County, Pinot Noir and most Chardonnays in the county were harvested by then, so the smoke did not affect the grapes. Overall, look for wines with slightly lower alcohol, higher but integrated acids, and a depth of flavor that you would probably have to go back several vintages to find an equal.

Winemaker Notes

“Lots of ripe Bing cherries, mulberries, baking spices, and cola notes emerge from the 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley. Medium to full-bodied, it delivers loads of spice and incense on the palate, ripe tannins, and a good spine of acidity. It’s already complex and drinking nicely yet should easily keep for 7-8 years.”

– 92pts, Jeb Dunnuck