2014 Drew Estate Field Selections Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., $60. Inaugural release from Drew’s estate site location 3.3 miles from the Pacific Ocean at 1,250 feet elevation. The site was carefully chosen after years of research. The soils are ideal ocean floor decomposed sandstone and shale, high in iron and quartzite with a perfect ration of sand, gravelly loam and clay. Marginal fertility combined with excellent water holding capacity but good drainage. Pommard, 943, 115, Swan, 667 and Mt. Eden clones. Yields 0.5 to 1 ton per acre. 20% whole cluster fermentation. Feral fermentation. Aged in 30% new French oak barrels. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. A highly savory wine offering aromas and flavors of cherry, strawberry, spice, pipe tobacco, and pungent herbs. Intense on the attack, with a cleansing, citrus-fueled finish. The tannins are a bit rugged and unrefined at this early stage and need time to mellow. The wine was much more endearing when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle but remained a highly savorous offering. Score: 92. Reviewed July 24, 2016

Winery: Drew Family Cellars
From article: Press Tasting of Current Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Releases