Dec 30, 2022
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La Follette Wines
| Owner(s) | Greg La Follette |
| Web site | www.lafollettewines.com |
| Link to this site |
La Follette Wines is newer winery which morphed from Tandem after it was purchased by Wine Creek LLC, focused on Pinot Noir from cool climate vineyards in Sonoma (DuNah, Van der Kamp and Sangiacomo's Robert's Road) and Mendocino (Manchester Ridge) county launched in the summer of 2010. The first wines, including Chardonnay, were from the 2008 vintage and were priced in the $30 (a Sonoma Coast blend) to $50 (Manchester Ridge) range.
For 2009, there are four vineyard-designate Pinot Noirs. A stated goal is to make the wines more affordable than other hand-crafted California wines of a similar pedigree.
The label is from an illustration found in a rare first edition French manual on viticulture published in 1847.
La Follette has had a remarkable winemaking career, characterized by a deep study of the science behind the art of winemaking. His unparalleled understanding of yeast - specifically, how different yeasts affect the mouth feel and flavors of the finished wine - is a defining aspect of his winemaking talent. He tends to favor the use of significant whole clusters in fermenting his Pinot Noirs.
Small lots of Chardonnay will also be produced from many of the same vineyards sourced for Pinot Noir plus Lorenzo Vineyard in the Russian River Valley. A taste at home sampling of 50ml bottles is available. Join the mailing list for special wine offerings.
A new tasting experience was announced in 2014. Visitors can have an in-depth barrel tasting adventure with winemaker Greg La Follette. La Follette hosts guests at his barrel aging cellar where samples of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are tasted, followed by a visit to the tasting room at The Barlow in Sebastopol for a tasting of finished wines. The Barrel to Bottle Tour costs $55 per person and is available by appointment.
Update: the tasting room closed in 2016, Greg left his namesake label the same year, and became the winemaker and partner at Ancient Oak Cellars.
Articles About La Follette Wines
2012 Chardonnay All-Americans (9.17 12/26/2012)
2017 California Chardonnay All-Americans (11.15 12/16/2017)
A Dozen California Wineries Offer Holiday Cheer (11.14 12/3/2017)
California Chardonnay (9.8 6/24/2012)
Embarrassment of Riches: California (9.1 1/11/2012)
Final California Wine Reviews of 2016 (10.44 12/13/2016)
Mendocino Ridge: California’s Best Kept Secret Source of Spectacular Wines (9.8 6/24/2012)
More Sips of California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay (9.20 2/26/2013)
Part IV: Tasting Pinot Noir from the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA (9.28 8/14/2013)
Petaluma Gap: Cooling Wind is the Recipe for Fine Wine (10.1 12/11/2014)
Pinot Briefs (9.20 2/26/2013)
Pinot Briefs (8.20 8/24/2010)
Pinot Briefs (9.39 3/29/2014)
Recently Tasted Glorious Chardonnays (11.14 12/3/2017)
Sips of Pinot (8.25 11/7/2010)
Sips of Pinot Noir Tasted Recently (9.28 8/14/2013)
Sips of Recently Tasted Chardonnay (10.29 4/22/2016)
Sips of White Wines Tasted Recently (9.27 7/22/2013)
Reviewed Wines
2015 La Follette North Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., $24, screw cap. A combination of barrel
and tank fermentation and aging on the lees.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of
lemon, buttery brioche and poached pear leap from the glass upon opening. Bright citrus flavors
with hints of honey, pear, persimmon and blonde caramel offer a highly flavorful experience.
Commendable balance with a good cut of acidity on the finish.
Score: 90.
Reviewed December 3, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 La Follette North Coast Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $24, screw cap. The primary source for
this wine is the Straquandanio Vineyard, planted in the 1970s. Picked in three passes to capture
the essence of the old vines. Bottled unfixed and unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass.
Cozy aromas of earthiness, blackberry, wood spice and smoke. Mid weight flavors of black
raspberry, boysenberry and blackberry in a forward drinking style with good mid palate richness,
fine-grain tannins, bright acidity and a satisfying finish. A terrific value priced wine.
Score: 89.
Reviewed December 3, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyards Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.5% alc, $38. Clusters picked earliest date ever
(September 14) and pressed straight to barrel without cold settling, with the lees in contact with the
wine throughout the aging process.
·
Light golden yellow color with a tinge of green in the glass. Hitone
lemon creme aroma with some reductive slate addition. Pretentious charge of lemon-infused
pleasure on entry with a bit of pineapple accent. The fruit really saturates the palate. Slight viscosity
with a lemon drop, uplifting finish. This is a wine for fans of boisterous Chardonnay yet there is
enough restraint to remind one of a great Meursault.
Score: 95.
Reviewed December 3, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 La Follette Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., pH 3.60, TA
0.58, 340 cases, $42. This vineyard is located at the base of the eastern foothills of the Sonoma Coast AVA,
directly adjacent to Gap’s Crown Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap. Dijon 777 and Swan clones. Aged 10 months
in French oak barrels, 38% new.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Welcome aromas of black cherry,
cardamom spice, vanilla, herbs and fertile earth. Impressive attack, length and finish in a silky, refined, mid
weight style that is beautifully balanced. Flavors of purple berries and plum linger on the quenching finish.
Score: 92.
Reviewed December 3, 2017
ARTICLE »
2014 La Follette North Coast Chardonnay
13.8% alc., pH 3.49, TA 0.60, 3,335 cases, $22,
screwcap. Grapes for this blend come from both Mendocino County and the Sonoma Coast. A blend
of tank and barrel fermentations.
·
Very light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas of
lemon wafer, honey, spice, brioche and buttery oak lead off. Inviting brightness on the palate, with
flavors of lemon, pineapple, green apple and grapefruit, and a pleasing texture that hints at
creaminess.
Score: 88.
Reviewed December 13, 2016
ARTICLE »
2014 La Follette North Coast Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.62, 7,458 cases, $22,
screwcap. Heart of this blend is Pinot Noir grown in the cool Petaluma Gap region of the Sonoma
Coast AVA. Grapes from two family owned and organically farmed vineyards in Mendocino County
round out the wine.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. A mix of black cherry, peppery spices
and black toast aromas lead to a mid weight wine with deep cherry flavor embellished with a note of
spice. Silky tannins but enough structure to give the wine shoulders. Easy drinking, with a modicum
of oak underlay and a modest but crisp finish.
Score: 88.
Reviewed December 13, 2016
ARTICLE »
2014 La Follette Van der Kamp Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.60, 252
cases, $42. This unique vineyard is located at 1,400 feet elevation overlooking the Sonoma Valley. 8 clones of
Pinot Noir are sustainably farmed by Ulysses Van der Kamp. Native primary and secondary fermentations.
15% Pinot Meunier vinified whole cluster.
·
Light ruby red color in the glass. A complex nose leads with aromas
of red cherry, spice, earth, smoke, stem and anise. Light to mid weight in a gracious style, featuring a cherry
core framed by toasty, tobacco oak. Corralled mountain tannins, with a rustic character leaning more on oak
and savory notes than fruit. The slightest alcoholic warmth shows up on the modest finish.
Score: 89.
Reviewed June 4, 2017
2013 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.58, 890
cases, $38. Greg La Follette has worked with Sangiacomo vineyards since 1984. This bottling is from Roberts
Road Vineyard, planted in 1998 in the Petaluma Gap. Old Wente clone. An intentionally reductive style using
native yeasts. Lees contact was maintained throughout the 10 month aging process along with gentle
batonnage until the beginning of spring.
·
Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. The complex
nose offers a variety of aromas including lemon oil, yellow peach, toasted brioche, spice and caramel,
elevating in intensity over time in the glass. Mildly creamy and plush on the palate, with flavors of lemon drop,
yellow peach, baked pear, vanilla and dark toast. The oak input is not shy, but doesn’t overwhelm, and with
balanced acidity and a clean, dry finish there is much to like.
Score: 90.
Reviewed April 22, 2016
ARTICLE »
2011 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
12.9%
alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.60, 536 cases,$ 40. Dijon 777, 114 and Swan clones grown
in the Sangiacomo Vineyard located on Robert’s Road in the Petaluma Gap.
Indigenous yeast, fermented in open-top, modified dairy tanks. Aged 10 months
in French oak.
·
Medium garnet color in the glass. Deep cherry aromas with a
note of savory herbs and prominent oak presence. Lovely core of dark cherry
fruit with a touch of spice and plenty of oak. The wine is juicy, with soft tannins
and some finishing intensity. Tasted the following day from a previously opened
and re-corked bottle, the wine had transformed showing more fruit expression
with much better integration of oak. I would decant this wine if you plan to drink
now, or preferably, cellar it for another year to allow the oak to mitigate and the appealing fruit to elevate.
Score: 90.
Reviewed August 14, 2013
ARTICLE »
2011 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
13.5%
alc., pH 3.30, TA 0.66, 510 cases, $38. This vineyard is managed by thirdgeneration
farmers, brothers Mike and Steve Sangiacomo with their brother-inlaw,
Mike Pucci. Planted in 1998, and located in the Petaluma Gap, the Robert’s
Road block is rooted in alluvial soils with tracks of gravel. The vines are farmed
to La Follette’s specifications. The clone is Old Wente. Crafted in a reductive
style. In 2011, ripening was difficult, so low other Sangiacomo blocks were used
to build the trademark richness of this wine. Native primary and secondary
fermentations. Aged 10 months sur lie with early bâttonage.
·
Light golden straw
color and clear in the glass. Perfumed aromas of grapefruit pith, lemon, honey,
yeasty brioche and popcorn. Delicious on entry and finish with an appealing array of flavors including lemon,
green apple, baking spices, even clove, crème brûlée and toasty oak. Very silky and engaging with
impeccable balance.
Score: 92.
Reviewed July 21, 2013
ARTICLE »
2010 La Follette Van Der Kamp Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Meunier
14.2% alc., 94 cases, $37. At 1400 feet, one of the oldest Pinot Meunier
plantings in California. Whole cluster fermentation, raised 10 months in neutral
French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Rustic,
very restrained aromas of dark raspberry, tobacco and tea leaves. Much more
appealing on the palate with a hardy core of plum, black raspberry, black grape,
cola and spice flavors with a faint note of smoke and tar in the background.
Well-managed tannins with bright acidity on the finish where the fruit returns
repeatedly for an encore. Good (+).
Reviewed February 27, 2013
ARTICLE »
2010 La Follette Lorenzo Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay
14.3% alc., pH 3.33, TA 0.584, 100
cases, $38. Crafted in a classic California style from old Russian River Valley vines. The vineyard was planted
in 1974 by John Bazzano who named it after his Italian grandfather. The 10-acre site enjoys cooling fog in the
mornings and evenings during the growing season. Fruit pressed whole cluster with juice sent directly to
barrel. Stirred bi-weekly through January and them monthly until July. Composed of a heritage Chardonnay
clone.
·
Light straw color and clear in the glass. Reserved scent of golden apple, pear, lemon, chalk dust and
oak. Flavorful core of citrus, baked pear, and spiced apple, with complimentary oak notes of brioche and toast.
Somewhat rich, slightly creamy in texture, finishing with a bright cut of lemony flavor on the finish. Very good.
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2010 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.2% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.63, 560 cases, $38. From the cold climate
Petaluma Gap. Planted in 1998, the Roberts Road block is rooted in the
alluvial soils of Copeland Creek with tracks of gravel. Predominantly Old
Wente selection. Made in a Burgundian reductive style with native yeasts.
Aged 10 months sur lie with gentle stirring of the barrels.
·
Light straw
color in the glass. Complex perfume of lemon curd, petrichor, Asian pear, ripe
pineapple, roasted hazelnuts, and subtle oak. Delicious flavors of baked pear,
citrus, and green apple, with perfectly integrated and supportive oak. Juicy and
spirited, making you reach for another sip. La Follette is a master of
Chardonnay.
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
15.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.61, 480 cases,
$39.99. Planted in 1998, this vineyard is located in the Petaluma Gap and is farmed by brothers Mike and
Steve Sangiacomo and brother-in-law Mike Pucci. Clones 777, 114 and Swan.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple
color in the glass. Aromas of dark red berry jam, toasty oak and graham, becoming more fruity over
time in the glass. Moderately dense core of ripe, sappy dark red berry fruit with under notes of oak char. The
mouth feel is remarkably velvety and the wine is quite suave. Fruit intensity accelerates over time in the glass.
Needs time to integrate the imposing oak. Good.
Reviewed January 11, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Van Der Kamp Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.64,
429 cases, $39.99. The Van Der Kamp Vineyard sits at 1,400 feet above sea level overlooking the hamlet of
Kenwood. The soil types include loam with volcanic material and decomposed river bed. Six clones are
planted, dry-farmed, and cared for with organic treatments. Some whole cluster fermentation. Bottled
unfiltered.
·
Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Subtle, but pleasing perfume of dark red fruits, spice,
musk and oak. Remarkably flavored with an array of dark red stone fruits and berries matched perfectly with a
firm backbone of ripe, dusty tannins. Very long in the mouth and juicy. This venerable vineyard delivers a
unique old vine mountain experience. Very good (+).
Reviewed January 11, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., $40.
·
Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Oak-kissed deep
red and well-spiced cherry aromas. Crisp and elegant with an appealing dark
cherry core, lashed with plenty of oak-driven notes of toast and coffee. A little
too much oak for me personally, but crafted well in its style. A bit hot on the
finish as it warms in the glass. More oak integration was evident the following
day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle indicating more cellaring will
be beneficial. Very good.
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Chardonnay
14.2% alc., pH 3.73,
TA 0.60, 499 cases, $48. Three clones: Dijon 76, Old Wente, and the newer Dijon 809. Clones vinified
separately. De-stemmed, crushed and skins held in contact with the juice for a number of hours to
increase aromatics. Native fermentation for Old Wente and 76 clones. Inoculated with a yeast that
heightens the perfume of the 809 clone. Aged sur lies with early battonage. Bottled unfiltered.
·
Light
straw color in the glass. Aromas of damp forest floor, baked pear, papaya and light caramel. Intense flavors of
white peach, pear, and lemon drop with an underlying earthiness and minerality. Slightly creamy with bright
acidity, barely perceptible tannins, and a bold, long finish. The richness, complexity and length really challenge
the senses.
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Dunah Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., pH 3.46, TA 0.72, 207 cases,
$49.99. This vineyard is located at the southwestern outpost of the Russian River Valley appellation. The 10-
acre vineyard was established in 1998 in Goldridge soil. Clones 115, 667 and Pommard. 100% de-stemmed.
·
Very darkly colored in the glass. Fruity nose offering appealing scents of black cherries and blackberry jam
with a hint of wood spice and smoke. Densely fruited on the palate with a mix of dark red berries accented by
oak-driven flavors of tar and tobacco. Soft in the mouth with well-managed firm tannins and tangy acidity on
the finish. More sinewy Sonoma Coast than Russian River Valley in character. Needs time to integrate the
oak, but will always be an oaky wine as evidenced by the prominent oak features one day after opening.
Decent.
Reviewed January 11, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., pH 3.74, TA 0.59, 494 cases, $49.99. This vineyard is
located at 2,000 foot elevation overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The vines
are rooted in decomposed sandstone. The relatively cool summer allows
the fruit a long hang time. Clones 777, 115 and 114. 45% whole cluster.
Bottled unfiltered.
·
Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Exotic
perfume of purple rose petals, mushrooms, musk, frambiose and subtle oak.
Hard to take your nose away from the glass. Delicious medium-weighted core
of black raspberry and black cherry fruit clings to all reaches of the mouth, and
persists with a vengeance on the aromatic finish. There are complimentary
notes of cola and oak-driven mocha that add interest. Very satiny on the palate. I continue to be impressed by
wines from this vineyard. Flat out beautiful.
Reviewed January 11, 2012
ARTICLE »
2008 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Chardonnay
14.5% alc., $40.
·
Golden
straw color in the glass. Very restrained nose with demure aromas of white peaches, straw and smoke. Light
in weight (seems filtered), bright in acidity, with shallow fruit flavors and notes of vanilla cream and burnt toast.
Sadly impugned by smoke taint. Decent at best.
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2008 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.3%
alc., $40.
·
Moderately intense reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose wants
for fruit, featuring instead primarily smoke and ash aromas. Smoky and tarry
cherry flavors that are slightly tart and fail to satisfy. A disappointing wine with
fruit that never really surfaces and is overshadowed by a brisk acidity.
Unsatisfactory.
Reviewed November 7, 2010
ARTICLE »
2015 La Follette North Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., $24, screw cap. A combination of barrel and tank fermentation and aging on the lees. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of lemon, buttery brioche and poached pear leap from the glass upon opening. Bright citrus flavors with hints of honey, pear, persimmon and blonde caramel offer a highly flavorful experience. Commendable balance with a good cut of acidity on the finish. Score: 90. Reviewed December 3, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 La Follette North Coast Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $24, screw cap. The primary source for this wine is the Straquandanio Vineyard, planted in the 1970s. Picked in three passes to capture the essence of the old vines. Bottled unfixed and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Cozy aromas of earthiness, blackberry, wood spice and smoke. Mid weight flavors of black raspberry, boysenberry and blackberry in a forward drinking style with good mid palate richness, fine-grain tannins, bright acidity and a satisfying finish. A terrific value priced wine. Score: 89. Reviewed December 3, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyards Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.5% alc, $38. Clusters picked earliest date ever (September 14) and pressed straight to barrel without cold settling, with the lees in contact with the wine throughout the aging process. · Light golden yellow color with a tinge of green in the glass. Hitone lemon creme aroma with some reductive slate addition. Pretentious charge of lemon-infused pleasure on entry with a bit of pineapple accent. The fruit really saturates the palate. Slight viscosity with a lemon drop, uplifting finish. This is a wine for fans of boisterous Chardonnay yet there is enough restraint to remind one of a great Meursault. Score: 95. Reviewed December 3, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 La Follette Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.58, 340 cases, $42. This vineyard is located at the base of the eastern foothills of the Sonoma Coast AVA, directly adjacent to Gap’s Crown Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap. Dijon 777 and Swan clones. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 38% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Welcome aromas of black cherry, cardamom spice, vanilla, herbs and fertile earth. Impressive attack, length and finish in a silky, refined, mid weight style that is beautifully balanced. Flavors of purple berries and plum linger on the quenching finish. Score: 92. Reviewed December 3, 2017 ARTICLE »
2014 La Follette North Coast Chardonnay
13.8% alc., pH 3.49, TA 0.60, 3,335 cases, $22, screwcap. Grapes for this blend come from both Mendocino County and the Sonoma Coast. A blend of tank and barrel fermentations. · Very light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas of lemon wafer, honey, spice, brioche and buttery oak lead off. Inviting brightness on the palate, with flavors of lemon, pineapple, green apple and grapefruit, and a pleasing texture that hints at creaminess. Score: 88. Reviewed December 13, 2016 ARTICLE »
2014 La Follette North Coast Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.62, 7,458 cases, $22, screwcap. Heart of this blend is Pinot Noir grown in the cool Petaluma Gap region of the Sonoma Coast AVA. Grapes from two family owned and organically farmed vineyards in Mendocino County round out the wine. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. A mix of black cherry, peppery spices and black toast aromas lead to a mid weight wine with deep cherry flavor embellished with a note of spice. Silky tannins but enough structure to give the wine shoulders. Easy drinking, with a modicum of oak underlay and a modest but crisp finish. Score: 88. Reviewed December 13, 2016 ARTICLE »
2014 La Follette Van der Kamp Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.60, 252 cases, $42. This unique vineyard is located at 1,400 feet elevation overlooking the Sonoma Valley. 8 clones of Pinot Noir are sustainably farmed by Ulysses Van der Kamp. Native primary and secondary fermentations. 15% Pinot Meunier vinified whole cluster. · Light ruby red color in the glass. A complex nose leads with aromas of red cherry, spice, earth, smoke, stem and anise. Light to mid weight in a gracious style, featuring a cherry core framed by toasty, tobacco oak. Corralled mountain tannins, with a rustic character leaning more on oak and savory notes than fruit. The slightest alcoholic warmth shows up on the modest finish. Score: 89. Reviewed June 4, 2017
2013 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.1% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.58, 890 cases, $38. Greg La Follette has worked with Sangiacomo vineyards since 1984. This bottling is from Roberts Road Vineyard, planted in 1998 in the Petaluma Gap. Old Wente clone. An intentionally reductive style using native yeasts. Lees contact was maintained throughout the 10 month aging process along with gentle batonnage until the beginning of spring. · Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. The complex nose offers a variety of aromas including lemon oil, yellow peach, toasted brioche, spice and caramel, elevating in intensity over time in the glass. Mildly creamy and plush on the palate, with flavors of lemon drop, yellow peach, baked pear, vanilla and dark toast. The oak input is not shy, but doesn’t overwhelm, and with balanced acidity and a clean, dry finish there is much to like. Score: 90. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »
2011 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
12.9% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.60, 536 cases,$ 40. Dijon 777, 114 and Swan clones grown in the Sangiacomo Vineyard located on Robert’s Road in the Petaluma Gap. Indigenous yeast, fermented in open-top, modified dairy tanks. Aged 10 months in French oak. · Medium garnet color in the glass. Deep cherry aromas with a note of savory herbs and prominent oak presence. Lovely core of dark cherry fruit with a touch of spice and plenty of oak. The wine is juicy, with soft tannins and some finishing intensity. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had transformed showing more fruit expression with much better integration of oak. I would decant this wine if you plan to drink now, or preferably, cellar it for another year to allow the oak to mitigate and the appealing fruit to elevate. Score: 90. Reviewed August 14, 2013 ARTICLE »
2011 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
13.5% alc., pH 3.30, TA 0.66, 510 cases, $38. This vineyard is managed by thirdgeneration farmers, brothers Mike and Steve Sangiacomo with their brother-inlaw, Mike Pucci. Planted in 1998, and located in the Petaluma Gap, the Robert’s Road block is rooted in alluvial soils with tracks of gravel. The vines are farmed to La Follette’s specifications. The clone is Old Wente. Crafted in a reductive style. In 2011, ripening was difficult, so low other Sangiacomo blocks were used to build the trademark richness of this wine. Native primary and secondary fermentations. Aged 10 months sur lie with early bâttonage. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. Perfumed aromas of grapefruit pith, lemon, honey, yeasty brioche and popcorn. Delicious on entry and finish with an appealing array of flavors including lemon, green apple, baking spices, even clove, crème brûlée and toasty oak. Very silky and engaging with impeccable balance. Score: 92. Reviewed July 21, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 La Follette Van Der Kamp Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Meunier
14.2% alc., 94 cases, $37. At 1400 feet, one of the oldest Pinot Meunier plantings in California. Whole cluster fermentation, raised 10 months in neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Rustic, very restrained aromas of dark raspberry, tobacco and tea leaves. Much more appealing on the palate with a hardy core of plum, black raspberry, black grape, cola and spice flavors with a faint note of smoke and tar in the background. Well-managed tannins with bright acidity on the finish where the fruit returns repeatedly for an encore. Good (+). Reviewed February 27, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 La Follette Lorenzo Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay
14.3% alc., pH 3.33, TA 0.584, 100 cases, $38. Crafted in a classic California style from old Russian River Valley vines. The vineyard was planted in 1974 by John Bazzano who named it after his Italian grandfather. The 10-acre site enjoys cooling fog in the mornings and evenings during the growing season. Fruit pressed whole cluster with juice sent directly to barrel. Stirred bi-weekly through January and them monthly until July. Composed of a heritage Chardonnay clone. · Light straw color and clear in the glass. Reserved scent of golden apple, pear, lemon, chalk dust and oak. Flavorful core of citrus, baked pear, and spiced apple, with complimentary oak notes of brioche and toast. Somewhat rich, slightly creamy in texture, finishing with a bright cut of lemony flavor on the finish. Very good. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
14.2% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.63, 560 cases, $38. From the cold climate Petaluma Gap. Planted in 1998, the Roberts Road block is rooted in the alluvial soils of Copeland Creek with tracks of gravel. Predominantly Old Wente selection. Made in a Burgundian reductive style with native yeasts. Aged 10 months sur lie with gentle stirring of the barrels. · Light straw color in the glass. Complex perfume of lemon curd, petrichor, Asian pear, ripe pineapple, roasted hazelnuts, and subtle oak. Delicious flavors of baked pear, citrus, and green apple, with perfectly integrated and supportive oak. Juicy and spirited, making you reach for another sip. La Follette is a master of Chardonnay. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
15.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.61, 480 cases, $39.99. Planted in 1998, this vineyard is located in the Petaluma Gap and is farmed by brothers Mike and Steve Sangiacomo and brother-in-law Mike Pucci. Clones 777, 114 and Swan. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of dark red berry jam, toasty oak and graham, becoming more fruity over time in the glass. Moderately dense core of ripe, sappy dark red berry fruit with under notes of oak char. The mouth feel is remarkably velvety and the wine is quite suave. Fruit intensity accelerates over time in the glass. Needs time to integrate the imposing oak. Good. Reviewed January 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Van Der Kamp Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.64, 429 cases, $39.99. The Van Der Kamp Vineyard sits at 1,400 feet above sea level overlooking the hamlet of Kenwood. The soil types include loam with volcanic material and decomposed river bed. Six clones are planted, dry-farmed, and cared for with organic treatments. Some whole cluster fermentation. Bottled unfiltered. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Subtle, but pleasing perfume of dark red fruits, spice, musk and oak. Remarkably flavored with an array of dark red stone fruits and berries matched perfectly with a firm backbone of ripe, dusty tannins. Very long in the mouth and juicy. This venerable vineyard delivers a unique old vine mountain experience. Very good (+). Reviewed January 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., $40. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Oak-kissed deep red and well-spiced cherry aromas. Crisp and elegant with an appealing dark cherry core, lashed with plenty of oak-driven notes of toast and coffee. A little too much oak for me personally, but crafted well in its style. A bit hot on the finish as it warms in the glass. More oak integration was evident the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle indicating more cellaring will be beneficial. Very good. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Chardonnay
14.2% alc., pH 3.73, TA 0.60, 499 cases, $48. Three clones: Dijon 76, Old Wente, and the newer Dijon 809. Clones vinified separately. De-stemmed, crushed and skins held in contact with the juice for a number of hours to increase aromatics. Native fermentation for Old Wente and 76 clones. Inoculated with a yeast that heightens the perfume of the 809 clone. Aged sur lies with early battonage. Bottled unfiltered. · Light straw color in the glass. Aromas of damp forest floor, baked pear, papaya and light caramel. Intense flavors of white peach, pear, and lemon drop with an underlying earthiness and minerality. Slightly creamy with bright acidity, barely perceptible tannins, and a bold, long finish. The richness, complexity and length really challenge the senses. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Dunah Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., pH 3.46, TA 0.72, 207 cases, $49.99. This vineyard is located at the southwestern outpost of the Russian River Valley appellation. The 10- acre vineyard was established in 1998 in Goldridge soil. Clones 115, 667 and Pommard. 100% de-stemmed. · Very darkly colored in the glass. Fruity nose offering appealing scents of black cherries and blackberry jam with a hint of wood spice and smoke. Densely fruited on the palate with a mix of dark red berries accented by oak-driven flavors of tar and tobacco. Soft in the mouth with well-managed firm tannins and tangy acidity on the finish. More sinewy Sonoma Coast than Russian River Valley in character. Needs time to integrate the oak, but will always be an oaky wine as evidenced by the prominent oak features one day after opening. Decent. Reviewed January 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., pH 3.74, TA 0.59, 494 cases, $49.99. This vineyard is located at 2,000 foot elevation overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The vines are rooted in decomposed sandstone. The relatively cool summer allows the fruit a long hang time. Clones 777, 115 and 114. 45% whole cluster. Bottled unfiltered. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Exotic perfume of purple rose petals, mushrooms, musk, frambiose and subtle oak. Hard to take your nose away from the glass. Delicious medium-weighted core of black raspberry and black cherry fruit clings to all reaches of the mouth, and persists with a vengeance on the aromatic finish. There are complimentary notes of cola and oak-driven mocha that add interest. Very satiny on the palate. I continue to be impressed by wines from this vineyard. Flat out beautiful. Reviewed January 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2008 La Follette Manchester Ridge Vineyard Mendocino Ridge Chardonnay
14.5% alc., $40. · Golden straw color in the glass. Very restrained nose with demure aromas of white peaches, straw and smoke. Light in weight (seems filtered), bright in acidity, with shallow fruit flavors and notes of vanilla cream and burnt toast. Sadly impugned by smoke taint. Decent at best. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2008 La Follette Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., $40. · Moderately intense reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose wants for fruit, featuring instead primarily smoke and ash aromas. Smoky and tarry cherry flavors that are slightly tart and fail to satisfy. A disappointing wine with fruit that never really surfaces and is overshadowed by a brisk acidity. Unsatisfactory. Reviewed November 7, 2010 ARTICLE »