2016 Dutton-Goldfield Dutton Ranch - Freestone Hill Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., pH 3.54, TA 0.62, 627 cases, $72. This vineyard is located in the extreme southwestern corner of the Russian River Valley on the coastal side of the Petaluma wind gap at the climatic margin for ripening grapes. Planted in 1996 and 1997 above the little town of Freestone. Tiny grape berries with thick skins produce highly concentrated wines. A combination of the 1996 planting of 115, 2A and 114 co-fermented and the 1997 planting of 667. Although fermented separately, the two blocks were blended soon after draining. No press wine in this blend. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, open-top fermentation. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 55% new. · Dark garnet color in the glass. A big wine with graceful intentions offering aromas of fertile earth, spice, boysenberry and blackberry. Full-bodied flavors of sappy purple and black fruits flood the mouth with goodness. There are tones of earth and iron in the background. The supportive oak and tannins keep the wine sleek and honorable. The bodacious fruit shows uncommon persistence on the finish. Score: 93. Reviewed November 17, 2018

Winery: Dutton-Goldfield
From article: Dutton-Goldfield 2016 Pinot Noir: Whoa Nelly!