Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay
Brief Summary of This Issue
The following wineries made impressive debuts in the PinotFile: Friedeman Wines, Kitson Wines, and
Metzker Family Estates.
An unusual number of high scoring wines are reviewed in this issue: 2015 Calera Reed Pinot Noir (94), 2015
Calera Jensen Pinot Noir (96), 2016 Cattleya Donum Pinot Noir (94), 2016 Cattleya Pratt Chardonnay
(94), 2015 LaRue Rice-Spivak Pinot Noir (94), Metzker Terra de Promissio Pinot Noir (94), 2016 Paul Lato
Drum Canyon Pinot Noir (95), 2016 Paul Lato John Sebastiano Pinot Noir (94), 2016 Paul Lato Gold
Coast Pinot Noir (94), 2016 Paul Lato Pisoni Pinot Noir (95), 2016 Paul Lato Sierra Madre Chardonnay
(94), 2016 Paul Lato Duvarita Chardonnay (95), 2016 Tongue Dancer Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir (95),
2016 Big Table Farm Earth Pinot Noir (94), 2016 Big Table Farm Elusive Queen Chardonnay (97), 2016
Coehlo Coehlo Vineyard Pinot Noir (94), and 2016 Coehlo Zeitoun Vineyard Pinot Noir (94).
Anaba Wines, Sonoma
Winemakers are Ross Cobb (Cobb Wines) and Katy Wilson (LaRue Wines). The tasting room is a restored
100-year-old farmhouse situated amongst estate vineyards in Sonoma. The winery website is
www.anabawines.com.
2015 Anaba Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., pH 3.34, TA 0.64, 505 cases, $42. Grapes sourced from
vineyards in the Green Valley (Kozlowski Vineyard) and Carneros (Los Brisas Vineyard). Pommard, 115, Swan,
777 and 667. Harvest Brix 24.5º. 100% de-stemmed, 4 to 6-day cold soak, fermented separately by clone.
Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 25% new.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. The nose makes its mark
with aromas of black cherry, bark, graphite and a hint of smoke. Rather simple but satisfying, with mid weight
flavors of black raspberry, black cherry and strawberry framed by gentle tannins. The acid-fueled finish offers
pleasing sweet cherry aromatics. More appealing when tasted the following day from a previously opened and
re-corked bottle.
Score: 90
2015 Anaba Westlands Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., pH 3.49, TA 0.64, 258 cases, $54. This wine
is intended to capture the essence of the West Sonoma Coast. Grapes sourced from O’Connor Vineyard,
Barlow Lane Private Vineyard and Mariani Vineyard. Pommard, Swan and 115 clones. Harvest Brix 22.2º.
100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, fermented separately by clone, 30% whole cluster. Aged 20 months in
French oak barrels, 30% new.
·
Moderately light garnet. Gracious aromas of dark cherry, rose, and milk
chocolate lead to a middleweight styled wine offering flavors of dark red cherry and berry and blueberry with a
bit of herbal oak in the background. Elegant and streamlined, with quenching acidity and a mildly astringent
finish. Unchanged when sampled the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Score: 89
2015 Anaba Soberanes Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.64, 148
cases, $52. Pisoni selection. Harvest Brix 23.8º. 100% de-stemmed, 4 to 5-day cold soak, fermented in
stainless. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 33% new.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass.
Extremely shy nose offering subtle aromas of cherry, sandalwood and oak vanillin. On the palate, the wine
offers good depth and length of red and black cherry and black raspberry fruit flavors. The sleek texture is
appealing due to milky tannins. The finish is modest but satisfying. Unchanged when tasted the following day
from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A delicate interpretation of this vineyard.
Score: 90
Calera Wine Company, Hollister
This winery is one of the historic icons of California Pinot Noir along with Hanzell and Mount Eden. The 2015
vintage represents the winery’s 40th vintage anniversary. The winery was founded by Josh Jensen in 1975 at
the site of a turn-of-the-century limestone kiln (“Calera” in Spanish) in the remote Gavilan Mountains of
California’s Central Coast. Today, the Mt. Harlan estate includes 85 planted acres spread across six small Pinot
Noir vineyards, along with estate plantings of Chardonnay, Aligoté and Viognier. The estate vines are situated
at about 2,200 feet elevation and are some of the oldest vines on the Central Coast. Calera is one of the only
wineries in the world to “own” its entire appellation.
The combination of limestone soils and high elevation are the defining characteristics of the Mt. Harlan AVA.
The very cool climate keeps the vines stressed so that yields average well-under 2 tons per acre. The resulting
wines have remarkable depth and character.
All of Calera’s vineyards on Mt. Harlan have been organically certified by CCOF since 2008.
The winemaker for the past decade has been Mike Waller. He employs native yeast, whole clusters, minimal
racking and extended aging in relatively modest new oak to achieve the Calera terroir-driven style. The
individual vineyards are allowed to express themselves and over many years of tasting these wines, I can
clearly associate each vineyard with its terroir-expression.
Calera has a tasting room open daily at 11300 Cienega Road outside Hollister. Reservations are not required
but always appreciated. Visit www.calerawine.com.
The wines reviewed here represent the winery’s spring releases, in March 2018.
2017 Calera Central Coast Vin Gris of Pinot Noir
13.9% alc.,1,000 cases, $22. Sourced from
Flint Vineyard in San Benito County. Grapes were harvested at lower Brix, specifically to produce
a dry Vin Gris. Aged 4 months in 100% stainless steel.
·
Moderate salmon color in the glass.
Aromas of yellow peach, cranberry, strawberry, blood orange and algae are echoed in the flavors
in a refreshingly crisp and vibrant style that is a superb example of this Pinot Noir genre.
Score: 90
2016 Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay
14.5% alc., 1,800 cases, $50. Vines planted in 1984 and 1998. Aged 15
months on the lees in French oak barrels, 30% new, 20% second vintage and 60% neutral.
·
Moderate golden
yellow color in the glass. The nose is flat out gorgeous, featuring aromas of white peach, honey, buttery brioche
and dried seaweed. Very satisfying flavor intensity and length, in a riper, full-bodied style with luscious flavors
of Golden Delicious apple and lemon. One doesn’t think oak at all when drinking this wine. An under
appreciated offering from Calera more known for Pinot Noir.
Score: 93
2015 Calera de Villiers Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $60. Vineyard planted in 1996, 1997,
and 2001. Yields 0.39 tons per acre. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10% second vintage
and 60% neutral.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose offers penetrating aromas of black fruits,
fertile earth, toast, burnt tobacco and a hint of vanilla. The wine's texture is seductively smooth and the mid
weight plus flavors of blackberry, black raspberry and cassis are enviable. The fruit is spirited and fresh and the
wine is seamlessly composed. Wines from this vineyard always taste like this and that reflects deft
winemaking.
Score: 93
2015 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 165 cases, $75. Vineyard planted
in 1975 (4.4 acres) and 2012 (1.54 acres). Yield 0.59 tons per acre. Aged 18 months in French oak
barrels, 30% new, 10% second vintage and 60% neutral.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass.
Wines from this vineyard tend to be more red-fruited and elegant. Aromas of red cherry, spiced
berry, dried rose petal and burnt tobacco reflect the whole cluster inclusion. The mid weight flavors
of dark red fruits are accented with a hint of spice and caramel. The fruit is succulent yet refined and
the overall impression is graciousness. Slick in texture, with a really long, mesmerizing finish.
Score: 94
2015 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 495 cases, $90. Vineyard
planted in 1975. Yield 0.44 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10%
second vintage and 60% neutral.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Enticing aromas of black
cherry, exotic spices and underbrush. The first taste tells you this wine is special. The mid weight
essence of black cherry fruit is long and intense, yet refined. The fine-grain tannins provide the
perfect backdrop and the satiny texture is mesmerizing. The finish offers a good grip of acidity and
uncommon generosity. This wine is always the Prima Donna among the Calera wine stable.
Score: 96
(Note: I took all the unfinished bottles of these wines to a group of twelve people at a social gathering the same
day and although all of the wines were highly enjoyable by all, the Jensen grabbed the most attention).
Cattleya Wines, Rohnert Park
Proprietor and winemaker Bibiana González Rave is part of the latest wave of young and talented winemakers
who are making their mark with California Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Born in Columbia and trained in France,
she moved to California in 2007, gained experience at La Crema, Peay Vineyards, Au Bon Climat, Qupé and
Lynmar before becoming the current winemaker for Wayfarer and Pahlmeyer as well as her limited-production
label, Cattleya Wines. Her Cattleya wines are on my Top 10 list of exceptionality in California.
The small production wines are sold through a mailing list. Get on board and you will be very pleased. The
winery’s website is www.cattleyawines.com. The Cuvée Number One Pinot Noir is released and the Donum
Vineyard Pinot Noir and Pratt Vineyard Chardonnay will be released in the fall 2018.
2016 Cattleya Wines Cuvée Number One Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 112 cases, $50.
Sourced from Lakeview Vineyard in the Green Valley of Russian River Valley. Pommard and clone 115
fermented in separate tanks. Aged in French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose
elevates over time in the glass. reaching a crescendo with aromas of blackberry, cassis, spice, violets, vanilla
and a hint of toasty oak. Mid weight plus in style, with an energetic attack of purple and black fruits with
underpinnings of spice, earth and oak. Veers to ultra-ripeness but does not cross the line. The tannins are
tucked in, the texture is refined and silky, and the finish is juicy. Still terrific when tasted the following day from a
previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Score: 93
2016 Cattleya Wines Donum Vineyard Carneros Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 65 cases, $70. Sourced
from the West Slope block containing the vineyard’s oldest vines.
·
Moderate garnet color in the
glass. Aromas of black raspberry, dried dark rose petal and spice are enticing. Deep, dark and
mysterious, with a generous amount of sappy black fruits touched by oak and supported by sleek
tannins. Very polished, with a sexy, plush texture, and finishing long and dry. A bit reserved upon
opening, showing off more when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked
bottle.
Score: 94
2016 Cattleya Pratt Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay
14.2% alc., 75 cases, $70.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Spirited aromas of lemon zest, white peach, graphite
and flint holding court for a long time in the glass. This is a spiritual wine with caressing refinement,
offering flavors of lemon zest, yellow grapefruit, flint and subtle toast that drape the palate. The
composure is seamless and the tight-wound acidity provides brightness and crispness. Every year,
this beauty is one of my favorite California Chardonnays. Pratt Vineyard is an exceptional site for
Chardonnay.
Score: 94
Cosa Obra Wines, Santa Rosa
Proprietor Gregory Hayes offers Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other varietals from select vineyards of the North
Coast. Consulting winemaker is Kent Humphrey (Eric Kent Wine Cellars). Cosa means “thing” and Obra
means “a hand-crafted body of work,” so “This is our thing, this is what we do, our hand-crafted body of work.”
The wines are available on the winery website at www.cosaobra.com.
2017 Cosa Obra Sonoma County Rosé of Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $18.
·
Moderate salmon color
in the glass. Attractive aromas of white peach, strawberry, white flower and bark. Sleek and
slightly creamy in the mouth, with satisfying flavors of blood orange, wild strawberry and
watermelon with a thread of oak in the background. Bright acidity makes for refreshing drinking.
Score: 89
2016 Cosa Obra Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $32.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass.
Revealing aromas of black cherry, earthy flora and burnt tobacco. A wine with modest intentions, featuring mid
weight flavors of black cherry, darkest strawberry, cola, tobacco and toast. Easygoing tannins make for
comforting drinking, but the toasty oak is too pervasive for full enjoyment.
Score: 88
2015 Cosa Obra Founder’s Reserve Sonoma County Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., $N/A. Aged in 60% new
French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose starts out with fresh black cherry fruit
aromas, but transitions to musty, stewed fruit aromas. Full-bodied, ultra ripe and somewhat sweet flavors of
black cherry, blackberry, and cassis. The wine leans heavily on oak although the prodigious fruit can hold up to
it.
Score: 89
Fallon Place Wines, San Francisco
UC Davis graduate Cory Michal is the proprietor and winemaker. The name of the winery comes from the
stairway in San Francisco where he originally started producing wine in a garagiste fashion with some friends.
Order wines at www.fallonplacewine.com.
2016 Fallon Place Herbitage Vineyard Los Carneros Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., pH 3.46, TA 0.65,
110 cases, $38. Single clone. Aged 18 months in neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light
garnet color in the glass. Upon opening, aromas of cherry, baking spices, earth and dust lead off.
Light to mid weight in composure, featuring a core of red berry and cherry fruits with a sidecar of
spice and herbs. Very easygoing, with a silken texture and gentle tannins. More appealing when
tasted later in the day from a previously opened bottle.
Score: 91
2016 Fallon Place La Cruz Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
13.9% alc., pH 3.39, TA
0.65, 75 cases, $38. Aged 12 months in neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderate golden yellow color
in the glass. Terrific nose with bright aromas of lemon creme, pineapple, yellow apple and butter.
Nicely composed with a welcoming core of lemon fruit accompanied by complements of pineapple
and blonde caramel. Somewhat unctuous and suffused with California sunshine, with a steeliness
on the finish that is appealing.
Score: 92
Friedeman Wines, Healdsburg
The short story behind this winery begins with proprietor Brooks Friedeman, a self-taught winemaker who
started his journey along with his spouse in their Walnut Creek garage in 2011. They now live in Freestone with
a small plot of Calera selection hand planted in 2014. Currently, the couple source grapes from vineyards on
ridges between Freestone and Occidental and produce 1,500 cases per year. They only work with vineyards
where they have long-term contracts and can control the farming.
The full story is as follows. Brooks and Jessica started dating in college and were married in 2011. He
proposed to her at a spectacular vineyard on a trip to Healdsburg. His work in the solar industry took him
California's East Bay and he started home winemaking in his garage. In 2012, Brooks started working out of a
custom crush winery in Sebastopol initially producing wine with five tons of grapes. He juggled work and
winemaking while trying to connect with famed viticulturist Ulises Valdez, who farmed every one of Brooks’
favorite vineyards. He eventually met him and they have been friends ever since. Ulises agreed to sell Brooks
two tons each of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Lancel Creek Vineyard and this source of grapes has
continued to the present. By 2014, the Friedemans had increased production to about 500 cases and decided
to make wine production their future. They sold their East Bay home, bought a house with about three
plantable acres in Freestone, and immediately planted Calera selection on 420A rootstock, spaced 1 meter x 1
meter. Brooks farms the vineyard himself while consulting with Ulises on farming practices at other sites.
Production increased to 1,500 cases, and a tasting room was opened in the Barlow in Sebastopol. The couple
still work their day jobs, spending every night and weekend grinding to try and make their winery a success,
hoping to someday create a family legacy business.
Brooks’ winemaking style is as follows. He picks at very different Brix across his portfolio and treats every
vineyard differently. Pinot Noir wines are fermented with native yeast after varying numbers of days of cold
soak, and most of the fruit is fully de-stemmed. Chardonnays are 90% fermented in barrel with weekly to biweekly
lees stirring and zero sulfite addition until dry and malolactic fermentation is finished. Barrels are topped
every 48 hours to keep the wines reductive. He says, “I shun dogmatic ideals, and do so with each wine.”
Friedeman Wines Tasting Room is located in the Barlow in downtown Sebastopol. The website is
www.friedemanwines.com.
2016 Friedeman Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.61, 165 cases, $45. Released May 31,
2018. Sourced from Campbell Ranch, Lancel Creek and Terra de Promissio vineyards. 60% 115, 20% 777,
20% Calera. 4 to 5-day cold soak, 5 to 7-day native fermentation, aged on the gross lees in French oak barrels,
50% new for 11 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Complex
aromatic display featuring scents of black cherry, earthy flora, bark and cardamon spice. The juicy mid weight
cherry cola core makes an impression as does the glossy texture. A wine for upfront enjoyment that has a bit
more tug of oak at present than I prefer.
Score: 92
2016 Friedeman UV Lancel Creek Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.61,
102 cases, $60. 50% Pommard, 30% Calera and 20% 777. Average harvest Brix 24.7º. 4-day cold soak, 6-day
native fermentation, aged on the gross lees in French oak barrels, 50% new for 11 months. Bottled unfined and
unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Pleasing aromas of black cherry, black raspberry and
underbrush. More sap and richness than the Sonoma Coast bottling and better oak integration. The silken
mouthfeel is cordial as are the gentle tannins. The mid weight flavors of dark cherry, black raspberry and
blackberry are infused with a compliment of toasty oak. The wine finishes with a seductive grip of cherry.
Score: 93
2016 Friedeman Terra de Promissio Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., pH 3.42, TA 0.69, 47
cases, $60. 90% 115, 10% 777. 5-day cold soak, 7-day native fermentation, aged 15 months on the gross lees
in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass.
Subdued aromas of cherry and savory herbs are echoed on the light to mid weight styled palate. Rounded,
polished and rather elegant, but this wine lacks flavor impact and seems a touch underripe. The wine picks up
a little fruit intensity over time in the glass and discreet tannins make for easy drinking.
Score: 90
2016 Friedeman Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.66, 170 cases, $35. Released
March 31, 2018. Sourced from Lancel Creek and Catie’s Corner vineyards. Clones are Montrachet, Rued and
Robert Young. Average harvest Brix 23.2º. Whole cluster pressed to 33% new French oak barrels for native
fermentation and aging. Lees stirred bi-weekly. Full malolactic fermentation. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of yellow stone fruits, pastry cream and baking spices
lead to a modestly flavored wine featuring yellow apple and subtle citrus highlights. The oak treatment is quite
agreeable and the finish is cordial.
Score: 88
2016 Friedeman UV Lancel Creek Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay
14.4% alc., pH 3.52, TA
0.66, 107 cases, $50. Release April 30, 2018. Montrachet and Rued clones. Average harvest Brix 23.2º. Whole
cluster pressed to 67% new French oak barrels for native yeast fermentation and aging. Lees stirred weekly.
Full malolactic fermentation. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. A
classy offering with aromas of lemon, graphite, cold steel and toast. Richly fruited with flavors of citrus and pear
fruits and a subtle petrol note. The fruit is energized with good acidity and the wine’s comforting texture makes
for a pleasurable experience.
Score: 91
Joseph Phelps Vineyards, Freestone
This winery started out as Freestone Vineyards, becoming Joseph Phelps Freestone Vineyards with the 2010
vintage. Planting initiated in 2000. There are three distinct properties: Pastorale Vineyard (Pinot Noir and
Chardonnay) surrounding the 40,000 square foot winery on Freestone Flat Road, Quarter Moon Vineyard
(Pinot Noir) and Ferguson Vineyard (Pinot Noir), the latter farmed under a long-term lease.
For several years, the winery operated a Guest Center at the corner of Bohemian Highway and Highway 12 but
this has been closed. Tasting is now available at the Joseph Phelps Tasting Room in St. Helena. Visit
www.josephphelps.com. The winery was chosen as a Featured Winery at the 2017 International Pinot Noir
Festival.
2016 Joseph Phelps Freestone Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., 3,015 cases, $60. Estate
grown. 51% Pastorale and 49% Quarter Moon vineyards. Aged 13 months in 38% new and 62% two-year-old
French oak barrels.
·
Moderate dark garnet color in the glass. A melange of dark fruit aromas and oak-driven
toast and tobacco. Mid weight in style, with flavors of purple and black fruits that flood the palate with
goodness. A fruit-driven wine with silken tannins and a modest finish. Not particularly challenging but not every
wine needs to be. Enjoy this wine for its beautiful fruit. When tasted the following day from a previously opened
and re-corked bottle, the wine had not surpassed its opening character and a little more oak infusion was
evident.
Score: 90
2016 Joseph Phelps Freestone Vineyards Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., 2,725 cases,
$60. 100% estate grown from Freestone vineyards. Aged 13 months in 35% new and 65% once-used
French oak puncheons and barrels.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. The nose wows
you with aromas of lemon pie, buttery croissant, apple and pear. Well-endowed with flavors of
lemon, yellow grapefruit and pineapple that are lifted with a backbone of crisp acidity. A deft touch of
oak is pleasing, as is the tightly wound, citrus-driven finish that offers some aromatic persistence. A
classic cool-climate Chardonnay.
Score: 94
Kitson Wines, Napa
After a career in Silicon Valley, Brad Kitson was looking for a new career path. He returned to school to obtain
a master’s degree in Viticulture & Enology at UC Davis. While in school, he began to work at Farella Vineyard
in the Napa Valley. Brad next became the consulting winemaker for Napa Valley estate winery Georg Rafael
Vineyards.
The image of the car used on the winery’s logo and label has special meaning to the Kitsons. The car photo
was taken at a parade in San Francisco, circa 1916 or 1917. The car was a Hudson Super Six. Brad’s
grandfather, Hugh “Hud” Huddleston was the driver. Hud made his way to wine country, not to grow grapes, but
to open the first car dealership in Napa.
Kitson wines are reasonably priced and sold on the winery’s website at www.kitsonwines.com.
2016 Kitson Wines North Coast Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.55, 120 cases, $32.
Double Gold Medal winner San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Harvest Brix 23.0º. A
blend of three vineyards in the Anderson Valley, Sonoma Coast and Coombsville appellations.
60%+ Pommard with the remainder Dijon 777, 115 and Swan selection. 10% whole cluster
fermentation. Aged 10 months in previously used French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light garnet
color in the glass. Appealing scents of cherry, spice, redwood and pine. Lighter in style, with
easygoing flavors of red cherry and berry with a forest thread. Forward drinking with silky tannins
and commendable balance. Like a Model T - simple but reliable.
Score: 89
2016 Kitson Wines Black Knight Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., pH 3.69, TA
0.558, 123 cases, $36. Harvest Brix 24.0º. The vineyard, situated in the southeast region of the
Sonoma Coast due east of the Petaluma Gap, is organically farmed. Clones 777, 667 and 115.
100% de-stemmed into open-top fermenters. Cold soak followed by slight inoculation of wine
yeast. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new.
·
Moderately light ruby red color in the
glass. Deeply aromatic, featuring cherry, sandalwood and feral aromas. Elegantly styled, soft and
satiny in texture, with mid weight flavors of black cherry and dark red berries. Very sleek, like an
Aston-Martin, with deft balance and plenty of aromatic cherry goodness on the finish. The wine reaches new
heights over time in the glass indicating age ability.
Score: 93
2016 Kitson Wines Haynes Vineyard Coombsville Napa Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., pH
3.73, TA 0.56, 117 cases, $36. Haynes Vineyard, located in the cool southeast corner of the
Napa Valley in the Coombsville AVA, was originally planted in 1966 under consultation from Napa
legend Andre Tchelitscheff. Swan and Dijon 115 clones used in this wine were added to the mix
subsequently. Harvest Brix 23.8º. 100% de-stemmed in to open-top fermenters. Slight inoculation
of wine yeast. Aged in French oak barrels, 17% new.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass.
Fresh aromas of cherry, baking spices and piney oak. Deeply flavored core of red cherry,
cranberry and spice. Very gracious and elegant like a Bentley, with impressive harmony. Tre Pinot.
Score: 92
LaRue Wines, Sonoma
The latest spring 2018 offerings from proprietor and winemaker Katy Wilson are stellar as usual. These highly
sought after wines are sold through a mailing list at www.laruewines.com.
2015 LaRue Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 240 cases, $60. Released October 2017. 100% destemmed.
Aged 20 months in French oak barrels 20% new.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The
nose is joyous, with aromas of cherry, pipe smoke, spice, and dried rose petal bringing more intensity over time
in the glass. The core of cherry and pomegranate fruit flavors have impressive intensity and length and finish
with uncommon generosity. Sleek, silky and balanced, finishing with juicy acidity. All you can ask for in an
appellation wine.
Score: 93
2015 LaRue Coastlands Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
12.4% alc., 50 cases, $80. Released
October 2017. 20% whole cluster fermentation. Aged 30 months in French oak barrels, 50% new.
·
Light garnet
color in the glass. The nose is quite savory, featuring aromas of earthy flora, cigar box and toasty oak. Light to
mid weight in composure, with dark cherry and dark berry fruit flavors that have an earthy and feral quality. Oak
adds more seasoning than I prefer. The fine-grain tannins are evident but not intrusive and there is only modest
finishing length. I re-tasted this wine several hours after opening and the following day and still felt the oak
treatment dominated the delicate fruit.
Score: 90
2015 LaRue Rice-Spivak Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
12.8% alc., 150 cases, $70.
Release fall 2018. 100% de-stemmed. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels 33% new.
·
Moderate
garnet color in the glass. Inviting aromas of black cherry, BBQ spice rub and floral perfume.
Refined and gracious on the palate, with an amazingly generous core of black cherry fruit that
seems to persist on the finish for minutes. A bit of spice and tobacco flavor adds intrigue. Not
perfect, as some tannin shows up on the slightly tart finish, but this is still a very compelling wine.
This vineyard is always my paramour among the LaRue stable of wines.
Score: 94
2015 LaRue Thorn Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
12.9% alc., 100 cases, $70. Released March
2018. 100% de-stemmed. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 50% new.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the
glass. Both red cherry and red berry fruit aromas along with earthy flora and mushroom aromas combine
beautifully on the inviting nose. Comforting in the mouth, with good harmony, in a mid weight style featuring
dark red fruit and savory herb flavors. The very long finish is notable for its generosity and refreshing cut.
Score: 93
2016 LaRue Charles Heintz Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.2% alc., 50 cases, $60. Released
March 2018. Barrel fermented in once-used French oak barrels and aged for 17 months.
·
Moderately light but
bright golden yellow color in the glass. Lovely aromas of lemon, stone fruits and alfalfa set the stage. Crisp and
fresh in the mouth, with engaging flavors of lemon, white peach, buttered toast and pastry cream. Nicely
composed, with some lingering fruit charm on the impressive finish.
Score: 92
Lombardi Wines, Santa Rosa
This winery was founded in 2013 by Tony and Christine Lombardi. The label honors a rich family history of
wine. Some of you may know Tony because hw was the Brand and Public Relations Director at Kosta Browne
in 2010. The winemaker is Cabell Coursey, who crafts small lots of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Sonoma
Coast vineyards. The website is www.lombardiwines.com. Note: Tony and Christine Lombardi along with Cabell
Coursey are hosting a 7-night Rhine cruise aboard the AmaPrima. For information, contact Expedia
CruiseShipCenters at wineclub@cruiseshipcenters.com.
2016 Lombardi Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., pH 3.47, TA 0.676, 227 cases, $48. Sourced from
Griffin’s Lair and Sonoma Stage vineyards. Clones 667 and Calera. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels,
33% new.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Slightly confected cherry and oak aromas are featured. The
middleweight core of cherry and raspberry fruits are nicely framed with oak barrel treatment. The mid palate is
a bit shallow, the fruit is slightly confected, and the cherry-driven finish is slightly tart.
Score: 88
2016 Lombardi Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.9% alc., pH 3.35, TA 0.667, 148 cases, $44. Sourced from
Boudreaux and Orsi vineyards. Barrel fermented and aged 15 months in neutral French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of lemon creme, pineapple, yellow
grapefruit and straw. Robust flavors of lemon-lime, yellow peach, creme brûlée and vanilla. Very slight tannins,
with a soft texture. The higher alcohol is folded in nicely.
Score: 91
Mansfield-Dunne Wines, San Francisco
This boutique winery’s proprietor is John Peterson and the winemaker is veteran Ed Kurtzman. sThe wines are
sold through an allocation list at www.mansfield-dunne.com.
2016 Mansfield-Dunne Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., pH 3.73, TA 0.55, 288 cases, $36.
Released June 1, 2017. Clones 667, Pommard 05, 115 and 777. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 25%
new.
·
Light garnet color in the glass. The nose leads with hi-tone aromas of cherry and spice with a hint of
guaiacol. Lighter styled, with a core of cherry fruit underlain with a smokiness suggesting smoke taint. Silky in
the mouth, with juicy acidity and a slightly tart cherry-driven finish.
Score: 88
2016 Mansfield-Dunne Peterson Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.3% alc.,pH 3.71, TA 0.59,
240 cases, $48. Release September 1, 2018. Clones “828,” 667, Pommard 05, 115 and 777 from Peterson
Vineyard. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 50% new.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Pleasing
aromas of muddled black cherry and spice, with more subtle aromas of potpourri, briar and smoke. Very similar
flavor profile as the Santa Lucia Highlands bottling but with more concentration, more flavor intensity and more
savoriness. The wine builds in appeal with time in the glass, offering a deft touch of nutty oak, a silky
mouthfeel, integrated tannins and some finishing length.
Score: 90
2016 Mansfield-Dunne Cortada Alta Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.71, TA
0.59, 141 cases, 150 cases, $58. Released June 1, 2018. Clones “828,” 23, Pommard 05, 667 and Swan.
Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 50% new.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Very pleasant and
enticing aromas of black cherry, dark rose petal and seasoned oak. Mid weight plus in style, offering a melange
of flavors including black cherry, black raspberry, plum, cola and spice. The fruit is ripe but not too ripe.
Polished in demeanor, with good length in the mouth and a pleasing finish.
Score: 91
2016 Mansfield-Dunne Peterson Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay
14.2% alc., pH 3.47, TA
0.68, 47 cases, 50 cases, $45. Released September 1, 2017. Hyde clone. Aged 15 months in French oak
barrels, 50% new.
·
Moderate golden yellow color with mild unfiltered haze in the glass. Aromas of lemon-lime,
pear, parchment and toasty oak. Rich and ripe in a full-bodied style featuring flavors of grilled lemon, grilled
yellow peach, pear and blonde caramel. Syrupy in texture with cautious vibrancy and a thread of toasty oak in
the background.
Score: 89
Metzker Family Estates, Napa
Melissa Apter Castro introduced herself to me as the winemaker for the new brand, Metzker Family Estates.
Proprietor Mike Metzker founded this winery in 2014, realizing his lifelong dream of creating a California wine
brand. A California native and alumnus of UC Davis, he relocated to Texas to receive his PhD in Molecular and
Human Genetics. He founded two biotech companies and teaches graduate students at Baylor College of
Medicine.
Bringing his talents of scientific training to the process of creating exceptional wine, Mike teamed with his son,
Cameron, and fellow UC Davis alumnus, Melissa Apter Castro, to seek out fruit from prestigious vineyards in
the Napa and Sonoma counties.
Melissa, a San Francisco Bay area native, trained with the Antinori Family at Tignanello Estate in Tuscany,
Italy, before becoming the head winemaker at Antica Napa Valley. She joined Metzker Family Estates in
December 2016. napavalley.com named Melissa one of “Napa’s Seven Most Exciting Winemakers in 2016.”
Metzker Family Estates produces less than 600 cases of single vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and a
single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from the Spring Mountain district of Napa Valley.
The Metzker Family Estate logo reflects Mike’s training in the field of genetics. Similar to the astrological star
chart, the Genetic Code circle flows outward from the center to decode the very building blocks of life.
Revealed within the circular seal is an homage to ancestry, founders and the mapping of new journeys.
I was very impressed by the two wines reviewed here and recommend seeking them out through a mailing list
at www.mfewines.com.
2016 Metzker Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 310 cases, $55. 75% Wädenwil 2A and 25% clone
“828.” 100% de-stemmed and fermented in tank, aged 14 months in French oak barrels, 30% new.
·
Moderate
garnet color in the glass. The nose offers an appealing marriage of black cherry fruit aroma and oak characters
of old wood chest and spice. Mid weight plus in composure, featuring attacking flavors of black raspberry, black
cherry, cola and tobacco holding court through a satisfying mid palate and strong finish. The tannins are under
wraps, and the wine is quite approachable.
Score: 91
2016 Metzker Terra De Promissio Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 145 cases, $75. The
winery’s first reserve wine. 50% clone 777 and 50% clone 115. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in
tank, aged 14 months in French oak puncheon barrels, 70% new, for 14 months.
·
Moderate garnet
color in the glass. Nicely scented with aromas of burnished cherry, blueberry and spice. A very
saucy and sexy wine, with a sleek and smooth demeanor, and enticing flavors of black cherry, cola
and spice. Satisfying out of the chute with impressive mid palate intensity, deft oak treatment,
integrated tannins and a ravishing cherry pie filling finish of uncommon length. The pedigree of the
vineyard shows through in this beauty that wraps you in silk pajamas.
Score: 94
Migration Wines, Hopland
This label is part of the Duckhorn Wine Company stable. Tasting is available at Goldeneye Winery in Philo in
the Anderson Valley (reservations preferred). The website is www.migrationwines.com.
2016 Migration Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., 23,000 cases, $40. With this vintage, the
winery switched their flagship Russian River Valley Pinot Noir to the Sonoma Coast AVA, sourcing
more fruit from cooler vineyards. 25% of the grapes were sourced from Bloomfield Vineyard in the
Petaluma Gap AVA. Russian River Valley sites are 40% of the blend. Aged 10 months in French
oak barrels, 40% new, 60% neutral.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Pleasing aromas of
cherry, raspberry and sandalwood lead to a mid weighted core of cherry, spice and cozy oak
flavors. Silky textured with restrained tannins, and a finish infused with cherry goodness.
Score: 90
2016 Migration Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., $40. Sourced from Running Creek
Estate, Charles Heintz, Orsi , Sullivan and Jewell vineyards. 75% malolactic fermentation. Aged 10
months in French oak barrels, 35% new and 65% neutral.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in
the glass. Aromas of canned peaches, honey, butter, yeast and toasty oak. Modest flavors of
lemon-lime and pineapple, with a clean mouthfeel, a touch of oak and spirited acidity.
Score: 89
2016 Migration Running Creek Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay
14.1% alc., $55. A
selection of the best blocks and barrels from this site. 75% malolactic fermentation. Aged 10 months in French
oak barrels, 35% new and 65% neutral.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Shy aromas of white
peach, jasmine and ocean breeze. Slightly creamy on the palate, with bright acidity and a quenching, lemony
finish. The bright flavors of lemon and pineapple are nicely integrated with oak seasoning.
Score: 91
2016 Migration Charles Heintz Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.5% alc., $55. A cool, high
elevation site with Goldridge sandy loam soils. Old clone 4 vines planted in 1982. 75% malolactic fermentation.
Aged 10 months in 90% French oak barrels, 35% new and 65% neutral.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in
the glass. The aromas arrive slowly in the glass with air exposure, revealing lemon curd, yellow apple and
artichoke. A flashy wine with vivacious flavors of lemon, pineapple and nori. Nicely composed with energetic
acidity, folded in oak, and some pleasing aromatic persistence on the finish.
Score: 92
Paul Lato Wines, Santa Maria
Paul Lato is a Polish-born, Canadian-educated sommelier who arrived in California in 2002 and is now in his
14th year of winemaking in the Central Coast. His wines are highly allocated and are served in the best
restaurants in the United States, Europe and Japan. His wines have won blind tastings in Japan and France
against some of the best wines of the Old World. Join the mailing list at www.paullatowines.com.
The 2016 vintage in Santa Barbara was ideal. Rain in February prepared the vines for a fruitful growing
season. Early bud break was followed by ideal weather during set, followed by a warmer than usual growing
season. An early harvest was delayed by an especially cool August. Cool, even ripening with no heat spikes
prevailed as harvest proceeded. These wines can be enjoyable relatively early while still possessing excellent
aging potential. All Pinot Noir wines are bottled unfiltered.
2016 Paul Lato “The Contender” Drum Canyon Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.3% alc.,
$75.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with scents of plum, blackberry jam,
mushroom, floral bouquet and a hint of oak. A stunning wine from the get-go with mid weight plus
flavors of black fruits with accents of spice, licorice and a subtle oak shadow. Remarkable
explosiveness on the mid palate. Silken in texture with a cordial balance, finishing really long and
fruited. So tasty you can’t turn away.
Score: 95
2016 Paul Lato “Atticus” John Sebastiano Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $75.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose is mainly red fruited with added aromas of rose
petal, spice and forest. Beautifully ripened strawberry, black raspberry and black cherry fruits are
long in the mouth and unusually juicy. This debutante is refined and silky, with balanced tannins and
complimentary oak and baking spice accents. The amazing finish lasts at least a minute.
Score: 94
2016 Paul Lato “Seabiscuit” Zotovich Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $75.
·
Moderate
garnet color in the glass. Initial aromas of damp earth, flora, and sawdust give way to fruit aromas of cherry
and boysenberry over time in the glass. Seemingly disjointed and uninteresting upon opening, exhibiting
reserved mid weight flavors of strawberry and cherry. Considerably better on the palate the following day when
tasted from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, with more juicy fruit expression. Reserved aromas of
cherry and oak spice persisted and this wine undoubtedly needs more time in the cellar.
Score: 92
2016 Paul Lato “Duende” Gold Coast Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $70.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Cordial aromas of cherry, crushed strawberry, rose petal
and spice. Very tasty mid weight cherry core with an honorable spice accent. Good energy and
composure, very silky with drop-dead elegance and refinement. Not a big-fruited bombast of a wine,
rather one of charming delicacy.
Score: 94
2016 Paul Lato “Suerte” Solomon Hills Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $80.
·
Moderate
garnet color in the glass. The nose is both fruity and savory, combining aromas of black raspberry and spiced
black plum with aromas of dried herbs and tobacco. The savory theme continues on the palate that features
mid weight purple and black berry fruits that are permeated with earthy and herbal flavors The wine has a very
soothing texture and a fine, but not noteworthy finish. Unchanged when tasted the following day from a
previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Score: 92
2016 Paul Lato “Lancelot” Pisoni Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.,
$80.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Exuberant aromas of black cherry, rose and exotic spices
holds up over some time in the glass. The most tannic wine in the 2016 lineup and what you would
expect from this vineyard, but the tannins are supportive without being intrusive. Amazing attack of
sweet blackberry, black raspberry and pomegranate fruit flavors that are expansive in the mouth
and boldly expressive on the finish. The alcohol is tucked in nicely. Even more seamless and
glorious when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. The pedigree
of this vineyard as well as its terroir shines in this wine.
Score: 95
2016 Paul Lato “Belle dé jour” Duvarita Vineyard Santa Barbara County Chardonnay
14.5%
alc., $70.
·
Light golden pear color in the glass. Enticing aromas of pear, lemon zest, pineapple and
wet cement really gain expression over time in the glass. Very friendly on the palate, with great
energy and balance, featuring flavors of green apple and lemon-lime backed by spritely acidity. A
high-collared wine with an edge character that combines delicious fruit with energetic acidity in a
harmonious blend.
Score: 95
2016 Paul Lato “Le Souvenir” Sierra Madre Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay
14.3%
alc., $75.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. The nose reveals more charming aromas over
time in the glass, offering notes of lemon curd, wet soil, pear, honey, 7-Up, toasty brioche and
vanillin. Richly composed and textured, yet sleek, with mid weight plus ripe flavors of pineapple,
yellow apple and grapefruit. The fruit really clings to the long finish and the oak skips along in the
background. Even more enjoyable when tasted the following day from a previously opened and recorked
bottle with uncommon length of finish for Chardonnay.
Score: 94
Roadhouse Winery, Healdsburg
This winery was founded by Pinot Noir enthusiast Eric Hall in 2010. He developed his winemaking skills at
Papapietro Perry Winery, but his style of Pinot Noir is riper, bolder and more hedonistic.
The winery’s tasting room is located in downtown Healdsburg. Production is just over 2,000 cases annually,
primarily from vineyards in Sonoma County. Visit www.roadhousewinery.com. The wines reviewed here have
been released.
2016 Roadhouse Winery Platinum Label Weir Vineyard Yorkville Highlands Mendocino County Pinot Noir
14.9% alc (label), 14.2% alc. (tech sheet), pH 3.95, TA 0.50, 200 cases, $75. Romanee-Conti selection
and Wädenswil 2A clone. Harvest Brix 23.5º. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, BGR yeast for primary
fermentation. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately dark
garnet color in the glass. Very reserved nose with only a hint of briar and oak aromas even over extended time
in the glass. A fruit-driven wine featuring black cherry and raspberry fruits with toast and licorice in the
background. The tannins are well integrated, but the wine’s low acidity leads to a lack of freshness. The finish
is notable sweet.
Score: 87
2016 Roadhouse Winery Pink Label Leras Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.9% alc., pH 3.90,
TA 0.60, 325 cases, $69. Martini clone planted in 1973. Harvest Brix 25.2º. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold
soak, BGR yeast primary fermentation, aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. Bottled unfined and
unfiltered.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. The nose lacks charm, offering only vegetal and cooked cherry
aromas. Plush and velvety on the palate with very ripe, even stewed-tasting dark fruits with oak plying the
background. The alcohol is tucked in on the modest finish.
Score: 86
2016 Roadhouse Winery Black Label Nunes Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.9% alc. (label),
15.4% alc. (tech sheet), pH 3.84, TA 0.67, 300 cases, $69. Clones 114, 115, 667, 777 and Pommard. Harvest
Brix 24.2º. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, BGR yeast primary fermentation, aged 12 months in French
oak barrels 20% new, 60% a blend of 1 and 2-year-old. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Gold medal San
Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. Very shy nose offering aromas of black
fruit compote, spice box and a whiff of vinegar. Mid weight plus flavors of blackberry, black raspberry and
cassis that really push the ripeness envelope such that a prune flavor also shows up. Acidity seems to be in
respectable balance and there is some length of finish.
Score: 87
2016 Roadhouse Winery Yellow Label Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
15.4% alc., pH 3.85, TA 0.66, 325
cases, $59, Clones 115, Wädenswil 2A, 777 and Pommard. Harvest Brix 24.5º. Clones 115, Wädenswil 2A,
777 and Pommard sourced from multiple vineyards along River Road. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak,
BGR Merit yeast primary fermentation, aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% blend of 1
and 2-year-old.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Challenging to find any describable aromas other
than oak on the nose. Elegant composed in a mid weight style with very sweet, extremely ripe dark fruit flavors
complimented by a whisper of oak. So sweet the wine seems to have residual sugar. The wine finishes with a
sweet and sour tone.
Score: 86
2016 Roadhouse Winery Blue Label Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.73% alc., pH 3.90, TA 0.67, $59. Swan,
777 clones. Harvest Brix 25.0º. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, BGR yeast primary fermentation, aged 12
months in French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% a blend of 1 and 2-year-old. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. Reserved aromas of blackest cherry and black raspberry. The mid weight core
of sweet blackest cherry is accented with notes of red licorice and spicy oak. Balance is respectable with a
pleasing finish of some length.
Score: 87
2016 Roadhouse Winery Green Label Sangiacomo Roberts Road Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.73% alc.,
pH 3.90, TA 0.67, 400 cases, $69. Pommard, Swan and 777 clones. Harvest Brix 24.8º. 100% de-stemmed, 5-
day cold soak, BGY, Merit and Assmenhausen primary fermentation, aged 12 months in French oak barrels,
20% new and 60% a blend of 1 and 2-year-old. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass.
Very shy nose without discernible fruit character. Mid weight flavors of blackest cherry, blueberry and
blackberry framed by modest tannins. The wine finishes with a sweet and sour.
Score: 87
2016 Roadhouse Winery Purple Label Silver Pines Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir
14.9% alc., H
3.83, TA 0.60, 300 cases, $69. Pommard, “828,” and 23 clones. Harvest Brix 25.5º. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day
cold soak, BGR yeast primary fermentation, aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% blend
of 1 and 2-year-old. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of prune and raisin
lead off. Extremely ripe and compote-like fruit in a mid weight plus style featuring flavors of raisin, cassis,
blackberry and dark chocolate. Fruit driven and monotone with a sweet-fruited finish and a hint of alcoholic
warmth.
Score: 86
Sonoma-Loeb, St. Helena
This label is a vision of two great winegrowing families, the Loebs and the Chappellets. Ambassador John Loeb
Jr. founded Sonoma-Loeb in 1990 focusing on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. He sought out winemaker Phillip
Corallo-Titus, who was also the winemaker at Chappellet. In 2011, Sonoma-Loeb became part of the
Chappellet family. Titus instituted changes in the years since, including switching many of Sonoma-Loeb’s
contracts to acreage contracts, harvesting earlier to preserve more acidity, and judiciously reducing oxidative
techniques like lees stirring and prolonged malolactic fermentations.
The winery’s website is www.sonoma-loeb.com. These wines represent outstanding value. The winery’s tasting
room is in downtown Sonoma.
2016 Sonoma-Loeb Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.83, TA 0.59, $34. Grapes
sourced from Dutton Ranch, Sangiacomo Vineyard and Calesa Vineyard. Aged 10 months in
French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of blueberry,
blackberry, baking spices, toast, BBQ and vanillin. Generously endowed in a mid weight plus style
with the whole gamut of fruit ripeness ranging from dark red to blue to black. Oak notes of char
and tobacco dance in the background. Well oaked but the fruit load can handle it.
Score: 90
2016 Sonoma-Loeb Dutton Ranch Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.58, $45.
Clones 667, 777 and 115. Harvest Brix 25.5º. Fermented using yeast strains from Burgundy and Germany.
Aged 11 months in French oak barrels.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. Muted, but pleasant aromas of black
fruits. Full-bodied array of purple and black fruits are backed by a muscular tannic backbone. Sleek in texture
with a very long, fruit-driven finish. A little less charming than the Sonoma Coast bottling. A succulent Pinot Noir
for fruit hedonists that could only be produced in California.
Score: 89
2016 Sonoma-Loeb Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., $34.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the
glass. The nose is bright and fruity upon opening, offering scents of lemon curd, yellow apple, warm brioche
and a whiff of honey and vanilla. Mid weight flavors of pineapple, guava and spice in a ripe-fruited style with a
mildly creamy mouthfeel. The wine becomes less appealing over time in the glass both on the nose and palate,
wants for acidity, and there is the slightest sense of alcohol on the finish.
Score: 88
2016 Sonoma-Loeb Sangiacomo Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay
14.1% alc., pH 3.50, TA
0.58, $30. Grapes sourced from several of Sangiacomo’s best blocks. Harvest Brix 23.5º.
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. A classic Chardonnay nose displaying aromas
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. A classic Chardonnay nose displaying aromas of lemon,
pear, slate and ocean breeze. Bright and crisp in the mouth with a satiny mouthfeel and a clean
finish. The flavor profile centers on lemon lime. Energetic, with refreshing acidity and good cut.
This wine has edges.
Score: 92
2016 Sonoma-Loeb Envoy Carneros Chardonnay
14.1% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.58, $38. Grapes
sourced from Sangiacomo Vineyard with a focus on Hyde and Robert Young selections. Harvest
Brix 23.0º-25.0º.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Compelling aromas of lemon creme,
wet lawn and sandalwood. Generous and engaging in the mouth, with a rich and viscous texture.
Bold flavors of lemon and lime underlain with a steely acidity, finishing with appealing aromatic pep
and energy.
Score: 92
Tongue Dancer Wines, Healdsburg
Winemaker James MacPhail left his namesake winery to produce intimate quantities of Sonoma Coast Pinot
Nor and Chardonnay under the Tongue Dancer label along with the assistance of spouse Kerry. Their senses
of humor embellish the wines with character and James’ 20+ years of winemaking experience shows in the
excellence of Tongue Dancer wines. The wines sell out quickly to mailing list members. Visit
www.tonguedancerwines.com.
2016 Tongue Dancer Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.59, RS 1.2 g/L, 223
cases, $49, white wax cap. Released March 8, 2018. A blend of three Sonoma Coast AVA
vineyards. Clones 115, 667, 777 and a suitcase clone.100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, aged
16 months French oak barrels, 30% new.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Exuberant and
seductive nose offering aromas of black cherry and spice. The gorgeous charge of Bing cherry,
black raspberry and spice flavors really hit home on the mid palate and cling through a generous
finish. Sleek in texture with a subtle complement of toasty oak and nicely integrated tannins. A real
charmer that is both harmonious and on pitch. You won’t be able to take your eyes off the glass.
Score: 95
More Wines
2015 Freeman Vineyards & Winery Ryo-Fu Green Valley of Russian River Valley Chardonnay
14.3% alc,
615 cases, $40. A multiple vineyard blend (Keefer Ranch, Heintz Ranch, Black Emerald, Searby and Dutton
Mill Station vineyards). Aged 15 months on lees in French oak barrels, 12% new and 88% used. Apparently full
malolactic fermentation.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of buttered toast, lemon curd,
honey, pineapple and slight matchstick initially. Rich and ripe fruited in a highly flavorful style that retains good
vibrancy. Flavors of lemon, pineapple, yellow peach, burnt caramel and vanilla build over time in the glass.
Slightly creamy in mouthfeel with some finishing length. The label says, “Burgundian-style,” but this wine is
clearly California in style.
Score: 91
2015 Goldeneye Ten Degrees Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 1,175 cases, $125. The winery’s
finest lots of the vintage. Sourced from all four of the winery’s estate vineyards. Aged 16 months in 100% new
French oak barrels.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Engaging aromas of blackest cherry, blackberry, oak
and vanillin lead off. Discreetly concentrated core of black cherry fruit is accented with toasty oak. A wine with
serious intentions with a firm tannic backbone and and a long, cherry-blessed finish. Considerably more open
and enjoyable when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. This wine is not as
extracted and opulent as usual in this vintage, but is a better table wine as a result.
Score: 93
2015 Peake Ranch Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 250 cases, $40. Proprietors John and
Gillian Wagner, winemaker is Paul Lato. 100% John Sebastiano Vineyard grapes. Clones 667, 115
and Swan. 3-day cold soak, RC 212 yeast, 17 days on the skins, aged in French oak barrels, 40%
new. Fined with egg whites, unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. A boisterous wine
featuring aromas and flavors of blackberry, black current, earth and oak. Good attack and follow
through with some finishing length. Appealingly silky in texture with integrated tannins. More
enjoyable when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Score: 91
2016 Trader Joe’s Platinum Reserve Lot #79 Carneros Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $14.99. Vinted
and bottled by Carneros Cellars, Napa, CA.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. The nose is quite
charming, offering aromas of wild strawberry, rose petal, cherry, raspberry and pine. Light to mid
weight in style, and very open and giving, featuring an array of dark red fruit flavors. A slightly
earthy, mushroom vibe is typical of Carneros. There is favorable juiciness and able oak
management (unlike many Reserves that lean heavy on oak). Still perfectly fine when tasted the
following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Incredible value.
Score: 90
2015 Wait Cellars Devoto Garden Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc.,
$35. Release summer 2018. Double Gold at 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. The vineyard
is a cool and windy site above Sebastopol with vines planted in Goldridge sandy loam. Native fermentation,
10% whole cluster 115 clone and 20% whole cluster “828” clone. Aged 10 months on lees with lees stirring
through the winter in French and Hungarian oak barrels, 20% new and 33% once-filled. Bottled unfined and
unfiltered.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of muddled cherry, underbrush, toast and dark
chocolate. Mid weight flavors of black cherry, blueberry and pomegranate assembled in a classic style with
some breadth of finish that includes a modest rush of tannins. When tasted the following day from a previously
opened and re-corked bottle, the tannins had assimilated and the wine had persistent and pleasing fruit pep.
Score: 91
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