An extraordinarily elegant wine that will satisfy diehard Burgundians as well as fans of sweeter, riper Pinot Noir. It’s generous in cherries, raspberries, chocolate and smoky sandalwood, yet shows a mushroomy earthiness that adds rich complexity. It will not be surprising if this delicious wine ages well for at least six years.
— S.H.
(3/1/2012)
Richness marks this flamboyantly fruity, sweet young Pinot Noir. It erupts in jammy cherry and raspberry flavors, while new oak brings sweet, toasty complications of smoky butter and vanilla. Would be just an ordinary fruit bomb except for the wonderful acid-tannin structure. So delicious.
— S.H.
(3/1/2012)
Sparkling wine specialist Schramsberg ventures out to the Fort Ross area to tinker with Pinot Noir under its Davies brand. This shows intensity and concentration, with powerful raspberry and cherry essences that are compounded by sweet-tasting, smoky oak. Impressive now, but it should gain traction in the bottle over the next four years.
— S.H.
(2/1/2013)
A soft Anderson Valley Pinot Noir from one of the region’s better known vineyards, this has thick fruit, yet it offers a silky counterpoint to the meatiness lurking in the background. With tart cherry and dark plum flavors, the wine has depth and finishes long and clean.
— V.B.
(3/1/2013)
Jammy raspberry and cherry flavors dominate this wine, giving it a simple, fruit-forward sweetness. The acids and tannins are wonderful, but the wine, good as it is, lacks complexity and dryness.
— S.H.
(3/1/2012)