VOLUME 12, ISSUE 34
December 30, 2022
ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE:
A Commonplace Bucket of Pinot Noir: Quotes, Ephemera, and Thoughts The Prince Retires (this time for good)

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Vineyard: Bacigalupi

OwnerBacigalupi Family
AppellationRussian River Valley
VarietiesPinot Noir

Articles mentioning wines produced from this vineyard

Wineries sourcing from this vineyard

Reviewed wines produced from this vineyard

2017 Gracianna Westside Reserve Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 74 cases, $76. Release TBD in 2019. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of dark cherry and ripe strawberry fill the glass. Surprisingly forward for a 2017 release, displaying a deep spiced cherry flavored core filled out with a bit of toasty oak in the background. Soothing in texture and easy to like, yet needs more time to fully integrate the components. Score: 91-93. Reviewed December 11, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

15.6% alc.. Release TBD. Very ripe fruited, even a tad roasted fruit character in a mid weight plus style with taut tannins, integrated alcohol, and some finishing length. No savory component in this virile, ripe fruit dominated wine. · Score: 89. Reviewed December 11, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Tongue Dancer Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.5% alc., pH 3.38, TA 0.65, 100 cases, $50. Released September 6, 2018. Old Wente clone. Harvest Brix 23.2º. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented, native yeast primary fermentation, 100% malolactic fermentation, once weekly lees stirring during primary fermentation. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. Bottled unfined and lightly filtered. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Demure perfume of lemon peel, pineapple, parchment and petrol. Discrete richness of flavor, offering tastes of lemon, golden apple, pineapple and sweet oak. A bright and uplifting style with redeeming acidity that veers from many typical Russian River Valley Chardonnays that display tropical fruit lushness. Score: 92. Reviewed October 12, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

13.8% alc., pH 3.34, TA 0.62, 326 cases, $55. Released September 2018. The oldest vines that make up the original historic plantings are one of the main components of this Chardonnay blend. Harvest Brix 22.5º. Gentle whole cluster pressed and aged 9 months on the primary lees in a combination of 35% new and 65% one to three-year-old neutral French oak barrels and 500-liter oak puncheons. · Light golden yellow color with the slightest lime green tone in the glass. Outrageous aromatic explosion of cut apple, poached pear, lemon butter, citrus glee and righteous oak. Glorious flavors of yellow apple, lemon, pear and a hint of pineapple in a suave style that is like drinking mothers milk. This is a wine of impeccable balance that is highly refreshing, playing on Chardonnay’s best features. Still extraordinary when re-tasted two and three days after opening. Theresa’s magnum opus that flirts with perfection. Score: 98. Reviewed September 14, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.67, 513 cases, $65. Released May 2019.Sourced from the Frost Ranch. Wente selection. 15% added whole clusters. 6-day cold soak, 10-15 days post fermentation extended maceration. Aged on the primary lees for 15 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The aromas of purple grape, boysenberry, cardamom spice and burnt tobacco are intoxicating. The discretely concentrated flavors of black cherry and boysenberry are accompanied by the slightest herbaceous note and citric energy. A spirited wine with impressive juiciness, admirable balance and an acid-driven, uplifting finish. A delightful wine with beautifully-ripened fruit and easy accessibility. Score: 94. Reviewed July 20, 2019 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Bacigalupi Russian River Valley Rosé of Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 75 cases, $30. 34% Wente clone, 33% Pommard clone, 33% clone 667. Brix at harvest 24.3º. The 667 was de-stemmed, gently crushed and sat on skins for 8 years, then pressed and cold fermented for 3 weeks. The Wente and Pommard grapes were destemmed, placed into tank, and at 24 hours a saignée was done. The rosé was fermented separately for 3.5 weeks until dryness, then blended and stored 4 months in neutral oak barrels until bottling. · Moderately deep pinkish red color in the glass. This is the heartiest, ripest and darkest colored of the rosé wines reviewed for this article. Deep aromas of dark red berries, watermelon, orange zest and a hint of toast. Robust flavors of darker cherry, strawberry, black raspberry and blackberry are offered in a softly textured and mid weight wine. This wine drinks more like a still Pinot Noir. Score: 88. Reviewed May 6, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Tongue Dancer Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.5% alc., pH 3.49, TA 0.58, RS <1 g/L, $50. Wax top. Inaugural release September 6, 2017. Old Went clone. Harvest Brix 23.2º. Whole cluster pressed to barrel. Native yeast fermentation lees stirring once weekly through primary fermentation only. Barrel fermented and aged 15 months sur lie in French oak barrels, 25% new. Bottled unfixed and unfiltered. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of lemon, chalk, slate and coffee along with subtle burnt match reduction. Richly flavored with lemon, golden apple, honeyed pear and blonde caramel. Lush and creamy mouthfeel with a modest mantle of oak. The heady flavors continue through the finish highlighting salted apple. Score: 93. Reviewed December 3, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 514 cases, $52. Aged in French oak barrels for 11 months and bottle finished. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, oak cask and mushroom are slow to arrive in the glass. More expressive in the mouth, with tastes of Bing cherry and raspberry fruits accented with a deft touch of oak. The tannins are suave, the mouthfeel is satiny and the finish leaves a good impression. Score: 90. Reviewed September 24, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 269 cases, $54. Release TBD. · A generous concentration of dark red and black fruits complimented by a savory thread that is typical of Pinot Noir from Bacigalupi Vineyard. Score: 92. Reviewed December 11, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

13.5% alc., pH 3.26, TA 0.65, 334 cases, $55. Released September 2017. The original historic block of Chardonnay at Bacigalupi Vineyard is one of the main components of the Bacigalupi Chardonnay blend. Harvest Brix 22º-23º. Whole cluster pressed, inoculated with Montrachet yeast. Barrel aged in 40% new French and puncheons on the right amount of lees for 8 months. 100% MLF. A barrel selection. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Shy aromas of lemon, lime, green shrub, ocean breeze and slightest oak. Uplifting flavors of lemon, apple and pear in a harmoniously styled wine with a silky mouthfeel and a quenching, lemony finish. A bit too lean and racy for my favor, but will appeal to those who seek out acid-driven Chardonnay. Score: 90. Reviewed October 8, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.37, TA 0.68, 591 cases, $65. Released May 2018. Release date May 2018. Sourced from Bacigalupi Frost Ranch and planted entirely to Wente selection. 85% de-stemmed, 15% of fruit added later as whole clusters. 6-day cold soak. 10-15 day extended maceration. Aged on the primary lees for 16 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Demure aromas of dark red and blue berries with a bit of earthy flora. This wine is a little more acid driven and earthy and less fruity than the Gap’s and McDonald wines. Mid weight flavors of dusty dark red fruits uplifted with vibrant acidity, finishing long and cherry-driven. There is a curious thread of decaying matter in the background. Score: 92. Reviewed June 29, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Gracianna Westside Reserve Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc.,150 cases, $72. Released July 2017. A selection of the best four barrels in the cellar. Bacigalupi Vineyard. Blend of Dijon 667 and 777, and Pommard clone. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Alluring aromas of Bing cherry, cola and baking spice. Delicious flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and pomegranate in a beautifully composed mid weight style that offers easy going tannins, a soothingly silky texture and tucked in alcohol. A glamorous wine. Score: 94. Reviewed September 24, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Gracianna Westside Reserve Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 144 cases, $76. Released July 2017. 10th Anniversary bottling. Gold medal at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair. A blend of clones 667, 777 and Pommard from Bacigalupi Vineyard. · Beautifully composed in a middleweight style with luscious red fruit that is nicely spiced. The fine-grain tannins make for easy consumption and this stellar wine is beautifully balanced. Note: this wine was previously reviewed in 2017 with a consistent score. Score: 94. Reviewed December 11, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 E16 Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.50, $44. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. The nose is flat out amazing with soaring scents of lemon, golden apple juice and honey. Impeccably crafted, with vivid flavors of pineapple, juicy yellow apple, spice, buttered toast and honey. Silky smooth in the mouth, with a dreamy finish that has serious length. A superb wine. Score: 94. Reviewed September 7, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

15.2% alc., 437 cases, $52. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of Bing cherry, pomegranate and sandalwood. Mid weight flavors of muddled cherry and black raspberry coulis with anise-laced oak in the background. Easy to cozy up to, with fine-grain tannins and a generous charge of aromatic cherry on the finish. Score: 88. Reviewed June 5, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Bacigalupi Vineyards Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 200 cases, pH 3.60, TA 0.60, $65. 57% Wente clone, 43% Pommard clone. Harvest Brix 25.4º. 100% de-stemmed. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 40% new, with lees stirring. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Hard to coax much fruit out of the primary nose which offers mainly aromas of oak-driven toast and espresso at this stage. Much more expressive on the palate with a mid weight core of black cherry fruit that is ripe and fresh. The texture is lush and seamless, but the finish is only modest and the oak treatment is a tad heavy-handed. Score: 88. Reviewed June 5, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.35, TA 0.72, 357 cases, $50. The historic block of head-trained and cordon-trained vines planted in 1967 is one of the main components of this wine. Released May 2015. Harvest Bris 22.0º-23.0º. Whole cluster pressed, chilled, settled, inoculated with Montrachet yeast. Aged sur lies 8 months in 100% French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. The scents of citrus oil, apple, blonde caramel, spice, toffee and smoky oak are intriguing. Slightly viscous on the palate, with bright flavors of lemon-lime, pineapple, apple and nutty oak. Easy to cozy up to with thirst-quenching acidity. Score: 90. Reviewed May 14, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Bacigalupi Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.2% alc., 166 cases, $56 (sold out). Unfined and unfiltered. Vines grafted from the original vineyard that supplied the grapes to the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the 1976 Paris Tasting. · Moderate light golden yellow color in the glass. The nose displays aromas of lemon oil, star fruit, toasty oak and lees. Slightly creamy in the mouth, with flavors of citrus, pear and kiwi set off by a toasty almond note. Very satisfying with a juicy, lip-smacking finish well endowed with oak highlights. Score: 90. Reviewed December 12, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.64, 588 cases, $60. Released February 2016. Sourced from the Bacigalupi’s Frost Ranch and Block 9 that is planted entirely to a Wente selection of Pinot Noir. Small % of whole clusters. 5 to 7-day cold soak, both punch downs and pump overs, 10 to 15-day extended post-fermentation extended maceration, aged 14 months on the primary lees in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. I was drawn to this wine immediately, with its forward aromas of perfectly ripe Bing cherries, cake spices and rose bush. A cherry bombast on the palate, with uncommon vivid and juicy character, flanked by integrated tannins. I was enamored by the freshness of this wine making it the best bottling of this vineyard designate to date in my opinion. Score: 93. Reviewed February 5, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Bacigalupi Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 232 cases, $65 (sold out). Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely perfume of Bing cherry, rose petal, spice and toasted oak. The medium-bodied core of fresh black cherry fruit is complimented by smoky oak and nicely composed t n’ a. Very juicy and vibrant on the finish. Score: 90. Reviewed December 12, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Matrix Winery Russian River Valley Reserve Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.60, 199 cases, $65. A best barrel selection of wines from Nunes, R. Buoncristiani and Bacigalupi vineyards. Native yeast fermentation, aged 18 months in French oak barrels and bottled unfined. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, kirsch, vanilla and spice lead to a delicious core of fresh cherry fruit accented with baking spices. Nicely balanced with plenty of heady cherry saturating the palate and lasting through an extended finish. Much more charm and nimble character than the regular Russian River Valley bottling. Score: 90. Reviewed March 12, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2013 Matrix Winery Bacigalupi Russian River Valley Reserve Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.56, TA 0.58, 124 cases, $68. Vines date to 1995 and 2003. Pommard and Wente clones. Native yeast fermentation, aged in French oak barrels. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, leather, sandalwood and raisin lead to a mid weighted wine with a core of dark red cherry and berry fruits and a top note of smoky oak. Modest tannins, juicy acidity and redeeming elegance with some power on the slightly warm finish. Score: 89. Reviewed March 12, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Arista Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.76, TA 0.55, 168 cases. Released winter 2013. Vineyard is located on Westside Road in the Middle Reach. Old Wente selection and Pommard clone. aged in 25% new, 25% 1-year and 50% 2-3 year French oak barrels. · Lightest and reddest in color of the Pinot Noirs tasted here, with appealing aromas and flavors of cherry, earth, grilled mushroom and sandalwood. Very distinctive, reflecting the terroir of this heritage vineyard. Score: 90. Reviewed January 20, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Press Cellars Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

15.3% alc., 100 cases, $38. Partial whole cluster with native yeast fermentation. Aged 10 months in 50% new American oak and 50% neutral French oak. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. Bold aromas of lemon-lime and toasted oak. A bit unusual in flavor, with notes of cut apple, poached pear, grilled pineapple, toast and burnt toffee. Creamy in the mouth, with noticeable fruit ripeness and fullness, made for the California palate. Score: 86. Reviewed January 23, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.0$ alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.58, 482 cases, $45. Released September 2014. Harvest Brix 22.5º. Whole cluster pressed, inoculated with Montrachet yeast, transferred to 40% new French oak barrels for fermentation and 8 months of barrel aging. Barrels included standard size and 500-L puncheons. The wines were racked off the primary lees once just before bottling. · Light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Enticing aromas arrive over time in the glass, revealing notes of lemon creme, yellow apple, nuts and vanilla malt. Very flavorful with noticeable brightness, offering flavors of yellow stone fruits, lemon, grapefruit, and struck match flint. The oak is nicely integrated, the texture is slightly creamy, and the bright acidity brings the wine to life. An appealing food wine. Score: 91. Reviewed October 6, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc. label (15.9% tech sheet), 309 cases, $48. Harvest Brix 25.6º. Aged 11 months in French oak. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. Shy aromas of Bing cherry, herbs and stem with noticeable volatile acidity. Mid weight core of dark cherry pie filling with hints of nutmeg, oak and dried herbs. Better integration of alcohol but a slight bit of heat is still evident. When tasted later in the day, the volatile acidity had largely blown off, but more oak sheen was evident, and the dry finish was somewhat astringent. The previous three vintages have been more cohesive. Score: 86. Reviewed August 15, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Roadhouse Winery Dark Yellow Label Middle Reach Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.67, 325 cases, $49. Release second quarter 2014. Wohler Road and Bacigalupi vineyards. harvest Brix 25.5º. Clones 2A, Pommard, Wente, “828,” and 667. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, inoculated yeast fermentations, aged 12 months in 20% new, 60% 1 and 2-year-old, and 20% 3-year-old tight grain or very tight grain French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple with slight haze in the glass. Shy aromas of red cherries and berries, underbrush, dried herbs and incense. The most savory wine of the four tasted here, also armed with a tasty essence of ripe cherry and red raspberry. The dry tannins are well-mannered, and the intense finish holds on. Score: 90. Reviewed February 4, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.645, 444 cases, $60. Release date February 2015. Sourced from the vines at the Bacigalupi’s Frost Ranch. Wente selection of Pinot Noir. Aged 14 months in 40% new French oak. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, strawberry, cranberry and nutty oak lead to an elegant mid weight palate of red fruits with strawberry the most prominent. A layer of complimentary oak in the background adds interest. An enjoyable, understated, forward drinking wine, with supple tannins and a lip-smacking finish driven by a good cut of acidity. Score: 90. Reviewed October 20, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Edge Hill Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.3% alc., 414 cases, $115. Allocated to mailing list members. Fermented and aged in French oak barrels. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. This is a sensual wine with a perfume of cut yellow apple, honey, lemon oil and toasty oak. Round and polished on the palate, the uplifting flavors of lemon, white peach, apple are embellished with oak seasoning. Impeccably balanced, and thoroughly satisfying, previously hidden nuances seem to appear with each sip. Even better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. I believe this is easily a 15-year wine. Score: 97. Reviewed June 27, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 375 cases, $48. Released April 2013. Harvest Brix 25.6º. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Plenty to like in this wine with a fiery nose of Bing cherries and oak. Smooth and lacy on the palate with a very tasty core of cherry fruit backed by baking spice and anise-laced oak. Considerably more appealing with more fruit-forward flavor and better integration of oak when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Give this wine a little more time in the cellar and it will become the centerpiece of a special meal. Very good. Reviewed June 23, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Gary Farrell Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.43, TA 0.62, 143 cases, $60. Release June 2014. Sourced from one of the newer Bacigalupi vineyards, Frost Ranch bought by the Bacigalupi family in 1993 and Block 9 is planted entirely to a Wente selection of Pinot Noir. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, aged 13 months in 40% new French oak barrels. Racked and returned once out of barrel before final blending and bottling. · Medium reddish purple color in the glass. Appealing aromas of black cherry, forest floor, spice and rose petal emerge over time in the glass. The exuberant black cherry and raspberry core provides good richness on the mid palate, carrying over to a generous and sleek finish replete with notes of dried herbs and tea leaves. The fine-grain tannins and forward fruit make for easy drinking now. Score: 90. Reviewed March 29, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Freeman Akiko’s Cuvée Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

325 cases. 23% O’Connor, 18% Campbell, 14% Connell, 14% Thorn Ridge, 9% Gunsalus, 9% Rayhill, 5% Sexton, 4% Bacigalupi, and 4% Harmony Lane. Aged 11 months in 27% new, 27% 1-year-old and 46% 2-year-old French oak barrels. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Very lovely aromas of Bing cherry pie filling, baking spices, and a hint of oak. This exceptional wine has it all: a soft, silky texture, vivid cherry and raspberry fruit expression, very suave tannins, uplifting acidity, beautifully married oak, and overall, an appealing delicacy. A thing of beauty. Drink or hold long term. Score: 95. Reviewed September 5, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 371 cases, $48. Released April 2012. After a cold soak, the grapes were inoculated with proprietary yeast, racked into French oak barrels, and aged for 11 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Lovely mix of fresh, vivid aromas of red cherries, red strawberries, savory herbs and sandalwood. Delicious essence of ripe red cherries and berries with a delightful earthy, savory bent. Well-composed with gossamer tannins and some length on the high-spirited, refreshing finish. Very good (+). Reviewed July 23, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Freeman Akiko’s Cuvée Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

312 cases. 41% Guidici, 29% Sexton, 12% Rayhill, 6% Thorn Ridge, 6% Bacigalupi, and 6% Spring Hill. Aged 11 months in 41% new, 35% 1-year-old and 24% 2-year-old French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. The bright aromas of black cherries, spice and seasoned oak leap from the glass. Racy, discreetly concentrated dark red fruits are complimented by a savory herb and citrus underpinning. This enjoyable wine displays an impressive balance of fruit, acidity and supple tannins and offers an intensely fruited yet refreshing finish. Drink or hold long term. Score: 94. Reviewed September 5, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

825 cases, $45. 1-year of bottle age. Release April 1, 2013. · Moderate reddish-purple color and clear in the glass. Very European in style with a savory nose of leaf, herbs, cherries and strawberries. Deep, lip-smacking cherry flavor with a spicy undertone. Impeccable balance and appealing elegance. This is a show-stopper from a superb vintage. Very good. Reviewed March 23, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 290 cases, $48. Released May 2011. From the Amador Family who have been ranching in Sonoma County for generations. Young Trini Amador, IV, began making wine at age 15 in his family garage, and went on to earn a degree in enology and viticulture. Winemaking was traditional with aging in French oak barrels for 11 months. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of red cherries and strawberries backed by complimentary oak. A lighter, elegant offering centered on cherry flavor with accents of cola, sassafras, vanilla, spice and herbs. Picks up interest over time in the glass becoming more vivid and praiseworthy. Gentle and easy to drink. Source: website. Very good. Reviewed July 1, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Gracianna Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 290 cases, $48. Aged in French oak barrels for 11 months. Vinified by Trini Amador. Unfined and unfiltered. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Very attractive aromatic profile featuring scents of dark red cherries and berries, herbs, grass, tea leaf and the slightest hint of barnyard. Ephemeral in the mouth with tasty herb-imbued flavors of dark red pie cherries with a sidecar of complimentary oak. Soft and smooth on the palate with a good spark of acidity adding vivaciousness, and ending with a very memorable and long, cherry-driven finish. Very good (+). Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Arista Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.82, TA .52, 106 cases, $58. Released spring 2011. Plantings date from the early 1960s with cuttings from Carl Wente in the Livermore Valley. 2 tons of old Wente Selection and 2 tons of Pommard clone Pinot Noir. Aged in 17% new, 33% 1-year-old, and 50% 2-3-year-old French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Haunting aromas of cherry pie filling, damp earth and stem. As typical with this vineyard, the cherry fruit has a mild herbal, tar and tobacco riff. Soft and elegant in the mouth with fine-grain powdery tannins. A unique expression of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Good (+). Reviewed August 13, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 Arista Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.82, TA 0.52, 106 cases, $58. Combination of old Wente Selection and Pommard clone. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Appealing aromas of dark red pie cherries, fennel and Italian seasoning. Very savory on the palate with a medium weight core of ripe Bing cherries, cola and Chinese 5-spice flavors wrapped in soft tannins. Picks up interest and intensity over time in the glass. The velvety texture is very seductive. Very good. Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 590 cases, $45. Wente and Pommard clones. 3 tons fermented whole cluster, 11 tons crushed. 7-day cold soak, inoculated for malolactic. · Moderate dark red rose color in the glass. Invigorating aromas of perfectly ripe red cherries and red berries, nicely spiced, and complimented by a hint of oak. Very approachable now with a middleweight core of Bing cherry, baking spice, cola and sandalwood flavors. A hint of savory herbs adds interest. Soft in the mouth with moderate tannins and refreshing acidity. This wine is the most fruit-forward of the vintages at this early stage. Very good (+). Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Arista Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., $56. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Demure aromas of spiced Bing cherries picking up more of a savory, leafy bent in the glass over time. Discreet array of medium-weighted dark red Pinot fruit flavors with notes of herbs and mushroom. A relatively simple wine now with impeccably balanced tannins and acidity that is youthful, and will benefit from more development in the bottle. Good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 Rudd Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.6% alc., $75. This Oakville Estate winery is the only winery to produce a wine from the original 65-year-old Paris Tasting Block at Bacigalupi Vineyard. It is the only Rudd wine made from purchased fruit. This release is the ninth vintage. Each year the fruit production of this vineyard decreases due to the age of the vines. Barrel-fermented with 100% MLF. · Light straw color with mild haze (unfiltered). Invigorating aromas of lemon curd, baked pear, oak, and a hint of butter and grapefruit. Delicious flavors of white peach, pear, and complimentary toasty oak with an undertone of minerality and a riff of lemon on the lengthy finish. The creamy texture adds appeal. A spectacular offering made from vines of great historical significance that will please any Chardonnay connoisseur. Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 Macrae Family Vineyards Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., $30. Winemaker Kerry Damskey. · Moderately light reddish-purple hue in the glass. Lovely, complex nose offering aromas of black cherries, mixed berries, rose petals and newly sawn wood. Lighter weighted, crisp and juicy, with ripe stone fruit flavors and a hint of grapefruit peel in the background. Good (+). (Note: check with winery on availability as this was obtained from Bottle Barn in Santa Rosa and is not offered on the winery’s website). Reviewed March 2, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Clonal Selection Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 364 cases, $45. Pommard clone from Frost Ranch. · Medium dark orange-red color in the glass. Very fruity aromatics offering scents of fresh berry tart, black cherries and sandalwood. Moderately forceful and assertive with noticeable tannin, offering flavors of plum reduction sauce, ripe strawberries and black raspberries, grilled beef and spice. Fine now, but could use more time in bottle for optimum enjoyment. Very good. Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Wente Clone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 418 cases, $45. 100% old Wente selection from Bacigalupi Vineyard at Goddard Ranch. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of dark cherry and berry mash with a hint of rose petal. Vibrant fruit on the mid palate with intense flavors of black cherries, dark berries and cassis, carrying over on the richly endowed and persistent finish. This wine really attracts your attention, offering and retracting numerous fruit and savory flavors over time in the glass. Well structured with moderate tannins, without the power and concentration of the 2005 bottling, but offering more appealing charm and complexity. Will easily last another 10 years. Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Wente Clone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 418 cases, $45. · Medium reddish-purple hue and clear in the glass. Aromas of very ripe black cherries and berries with a floral accent. Intense flavors of black cherries, black currant and cassis with ripe, full tannins and a savory note in the background. From a bottle opened one day prior. Good. Reviewed March 23, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Chronicle Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Zinfandel

14.5% alc., 165 cases, $36. · Lovely nose of fresh black cherries and berries with hints of pepper and oak char. Plenty of sweet fruit with herbal oak in the background. Very smooth and suave with generous fine-grained tannins and a tangy lift to the finish. Lighter in weight than the Old Vines bottling and more appealing to me. Ageworthy. Very good. Reviewed December 16, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

689 cases, $48. Not tasted. · Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2006 Charlie Clay Duelist Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., pH 3.57, 47 cases, $65. A partnership between restaurateur Charlie Palmer and winemaker Clay Mauritson of Mauritson Winery in Dry Creek Valley. 2006 was the inaugural vintage of Charlie Clay wines with the Duelist being a reserve bottling. 85% Dutton-Campbell Vineyard and 15% Bacigalupi Vineyard Wente clone. Available on the wine list at Charlie Palmer’s restaurants. · A riper styled Pinot Noir which approaches but never reaches overripeness. Aromas of macerated strawberries, sandalwood and sweet oak. Juicy essence of berry compote trending to the red and blue berry spectrum with substantial oak in the background. A well-crafted wine that aims to please with vigorous fruit, soft tannins, bright acidity and some persistence on the finish. Good. Reviewed March 11, 2010 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2005 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 675 cases, $50. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Subdued aromas of darker berries and underbrush. Delicious essence of black plum reduction sauce and blackberry jam with hints of anise, grass and oak. A relative bruiser with the fruit still tightly compressed in the potent tannins. Still a Lolita. Much better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Needs several more years in the cellar or decant if you must drink now. Very good (-). Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2004 D’Argenzio Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

405 cases, $36. · Both wines are well-crafted in a medium-bodied style with appealing varietal flavors and a nice suppleness in the mouth. Reviewed July 30, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2004 D’Argenzio Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

460 cases, $36. This winery was started in 1997 by twin brothers, Ricci and Ray D’Argenzio. Building on their family heritage of winemaking, they have crafted small lots of Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley since their first release in 2000. · This Pinot has a bright nose of red fruits. Richly oaked red fruits carry through to a lingering finish with moderate fine tannins. A full-flavored style with generous oak features. Reviewed January 22, 2007 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2004 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 558 cases, $52. · Moderate dark red rose color in the glass. Very bright and appealing perfume of fresh crushed cherries, just picked berries with a complimentary hint of oak spice. Soft and silky on the palate with a well-spiced light to medium weight core of Bing cherries highlighted by savory herbs. The structural tannins are evident but not imposing and the bright acidity is uplifting. This wine is drinking beautifully now but balance predicts another ten years ahead. Still fine the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Very good (+). Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2003 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 829 cases, $52. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass with slight bricking of the rim. Fresh aromas of raspberries, rose hips tea, fennel seed and even ripe melon. Medium-weight flavors of dark raspberries and cherries with undertones of cola, Chinese 5-spice and dark chocolate. Amazing mouth filling presence with mild fine-grain tannin and remarkable length on the finish. This wine is perfect now, but should have several years of life ahead. Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2002 John Tyler Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 826 cases, $58. · Moderately light reddish-purple color with slight bricking of the rim in the glass. Still fresh on the nose with a complex array of aromas including red fruits, spice, loam, old cask, and rose petal. Tasty core of dark cherry and raspberry fruit with secondary characters of fruit leather, tobacco and tea leaves. Still plenty of pleasing fruit on board with mild tannins and an appealing softness in the mouth. A charming wine with a lovely patina that has probably peaked, but will last another five years. Very good. Reviewed March 21, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

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