MacRostie Winery & Vineyards

Articles About MacRostie Winery & Vineyards

Reviewed Wines

2018 MacRostie Hellenthal Vineyard Fort Ross-Seaview Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 311 cases, $58, screw cap closure. Produced and bottled by MacRostie Winery, Healdsburg, CA. 100% de-stemmed, inoculated with select yeast strains after a 3-day cold soak. Aged 10 months in 33% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Interest array of aromas including black raspberry, spice rub, herbal tea and clay. Very grounded and savory on the palate in a middleweight style, with fruit flavors of blueberry and boysenberry. Some ripe tannins reflect its young life. The finish is exceedingly long. This wine will benefit from decanting. It was much more giving when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. Score: 94. Reviewed July 28, 2021 ARTICLE »

2017 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.5% alc., 19,095 cases, $25. Screw cap. Sourced from Sangiacomo and Hi Vista vineyards in Carneros, Dutton and Martinelli vineyards in the Russian River Valley, and Steve MacRostie’s Wildcat Mountain Vineyard in the Sonoma Coast AVA. Whole cluster pressed gently, 85% fermented in French oak Barrels, 20% new, and 15% fermented and aged in stainless steel. 85% malolactic fermentation. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. The nose offers a nice mix of lemon, spice, white nectarine, butter and vanilla aromas. Impressive energy with good oak integration, displaying a range of citrus flavors and the slightest note of spice and flint. Slightly creamy in texture, with a lip-smacking finish that leaves a vibrant lemony impression. A terrific value. Score: 90. Reviewed June 19, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.6% alc., 1,595 cases, $46. Vineyard founded by Steve MacRostie and partners Nancy and Tony Lilly in 1998. Sparse volcanic soils. Cool and challenging, with a fog-shrouded location and exposure to strong winds off the Pacific Ocean most afternoons. Whole cluster pressed, cold settled, barrel fermented, and aged 10 months in the same French oak barrels, 22% new. 100% MLF. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. A complex nose offers aromas of dried apple, grilled lemon, wheat toast and creme caramel. Nice harmony in an mellow style that offers well-ripened fruit flavors of lemon, pineapple and tropical fruits. Oak contributes a little nuttiness and pain grille. The wine has a silky, gossamer finish but I would have wanted more lift from acidity. Score: 90. Reviewed June 19, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 MacRostie Winery & Vineyards Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.3% alc., 18,227 cases, $25, screwcap. Sourced from multiple distinguished vineyards in the Sonoma Coast, Carneros, Russian River Valley and Petaluma Gap. 85% of the juice was racked into French oak barrels for fermentation, 20% new. 15% of the juice stayed in stainless steel tanks and never went to barrel. The wines were aged on the lees for 6 months both in tank and barrel, with occasional stirring. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. This is a very classy and comforting wine, featuring aromas and flavors of lemon, white peach, baking spices and a hint of toast. Good on the attack with a pleasingly smoothing texture, finishing on a lemony high note. Very harmonious and easy to like. Impressive quality considering such a large production and modest pricing. Score: 92. Reviewed July 14, 2018 ARTICLE »

2016 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 3,184 cases, $34, screw cap. Vineyarddesignate caliber lots are included in this wine. There is a focus on Thale’s Estate, Wildcat Mountain, Champlin Creek and Sangiacomo vineyards. 20% whole cluster. Two-week fermentation followed by aging in French oak barrels, 22% new, for 10 months. · Light ruby red color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, baking spice and toasty oak are most appealing when the cork is first pulled. A gentle, lighter-styled wine with flavors of red cherry and strawberry and no apparent oak on the palate. Sleek and elegant, with gossamer tannins and a little finish. An easy-to-cozy-up-to back porch Pinot. Score: 89. Reviewed March 23, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 MacRostie Thale’s Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 983 cases, $58. This vineyard (named after Steve MacRostie’s wife) was added to the winery’s estate program in 2013. Since acquisition, the Thale’s (Thay-Lee) Vineyard has undergone significant changes to refine the farming under the direction of viticultural guru Allen Holstein. The vineyard is also home to the MacRostie Estate House. 100% gently de-stemmed, open-top tank fermentation, inoculated with select yeast strain after a 3-day cold soak, pump-overs and punch downs, aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 32% new and 20% once-used. · Light garnet color in the glass. The nose is both fruity (dark red cherry and berry) and savory (mushrooms on the grill). Light to mid weight in style, with a charming core of black cherry and blueberry fruits. A gentle, demure Pinot Noiir, with well-managed tannins and deft oak treatment. More feminine in style than most Middle Reach Pinot Noirs and some may find the juicy finish a tad shallow but I delighted in its delicacy. Score: 92. Reviewed June 19, 2019 ARTICLE »

2015 MacRostie Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.2% alc., 954 cases, $34, screwcap. Grapes sourced from Kent Ritchie, Martinelli, Mirabelle, Charles Heintz, Mill Station and Braughton vineyards. Gently whole cluster pressed, fermented and aged on the lees with occasional stirring for 9 months in French oak barrels. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Enticing aromas of lemon-lime, pink grapefruit and ripe pear. Straightforward, but offering crisp citrus and white stone fruit flavors that are energized by good acidity.The wine finishes with a mineral oil taste. Score: 88. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »

2015 MacRostie Kent Ritchie Vineyard Russian River Valley Chardonnay

13.9% alc., 315 cases, $46, screw cap. Kent Ritchie has farmed his iconic vineyard for nearly 40 years. Wente selection from original 40-year-old plantings and 15- to 20-year old vines. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented and aged on the lees with occasional stirring for 15 months. 15% new French oak. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Soaring aromas of lemon, pineapple, pear, creme brûlée and a hint of slate. Lovely flavors of pear, lemon, pineapple and melon that are both intense and lifted by vibrant acidity. Impeccably composed and balanced, with a slightly viscous mouth feel and a grand finish that really holds on. Goes down like mother’s milk. A special wine from a venerable vineyard and exceptional by any measure. Terrific price to boot. Score: 95. Reviewed January 20, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 MacRostie Winery & Vineyards Thale’s Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 740 cases, $56, screw cap. Steve and spouse Thale founded MacRostie together in 1987. Thale’s Vineyard surrounds the winery’s new home in Westside Road in the Russian River Valley. The winery’s first estate vineyard. Clones 2A and 23. 100% de-stemmed, inoculated with yeast after a 3-day cold soak. Aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 37% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose offers a combination of fruity black cherry aromas and savory notes of earthy flora, herbs and toasty oak. Light to mid weight in style, offering flavors of Bing cherry and purple grape with an accent of baking spice and herbs. Somewhat reserved in character, but displaying satisfactory mid palate intensity and a juicy finish. Score: 90. Reviewed January 20, 2018 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.2% alc., 325 cases, $32, screwcap. Sourced from Ritchie (Old Wente clone) and Mirabel vineyards.Full malolactic fermentation, 9 months of aging with lees stirring in French oak barrels, 22% new. · Light platinum yellow color and clear in the glass. The nose is energized with aromas of baked pear, lemon oil, brioche and a spritz of lime. Appealing flavors of lemon creme pie, lime, vanilla and faint toasty oak are in sync with sound acidity. Straightforward and easy to like with a pleasingly creamy mouthfeel. Score: 89. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 450 cases, $42, screwcap. Sourced from a number of vineyards including two Dutton Ranch properties, Cummings Vineyard, and the estate Thale’s Vineyard. 100% gently de-stemmed, aged in French oak barrels from a number of different cooperages. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Nicely scented with aromas of Bing cherry, rose petal and spice. Cherry-driven and straightforward, with good balance, easy approachability and a short, pleasing finish. Score: 88. Reviewed June 18, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Dutton Ranch Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.6% alc., 399 cases, $46, screwcap. Sourced from three blocks that are foggy with Goldridge soils. Braughton on Vine Hill Road, Hansen Hill at Dutton Ranch in Graton, and Jewell Ranch also located in Graton. Whole cluster pressed, racked into French oak barrels for primary and malolactic fermentation, and aged 10 months on lees with occasional stirring. 35% of barrels were new. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of lemon pie, peach, brioche, and kelp lead to predominantly salted apple, pear, pineapple and spice flavors in a sleekly styled wine with bright acidity. Score: 90. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Sangiacomo Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay

14.6% alc., 277 cases, $46, screwcap. 28th vintage making wine from Sangiacomo. This wine is meant to be special, representing only 4% of the fruit that MacRostie gets from Sangiacomo Vineyard. Grapes came from four blocks of Sangiacomo Vineyard: Rich Kiser, Kiser A, Kiser B and a Petaluma Gap site called Roberts Road. Gently whole cluster pressed, racked to French oak barrels for fermentation where primary and malolactic fermentations were completed. The wine was aged on the lees with occasional stirring for 10 months. 12 barrels were chosen, 2 of which were new and the rest used for previous vintages. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. A ripe fruited wine of great appeal with aromas of fresh citrus, honeysuckle, barrel and buttered popcorn. Defined by lively acidity and lemon-driven flavor, with a slightly creamy texture, a hint of nutty oak, and some finishing length. Score: 92. Reviewed June 19, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.5% alc., 1,080 cases, $46, screwcap. Vineyard owned by Steve MacRostie and his partners Nancy and Tony Lilly. Clone 76, 95 and 17. Whole cluster pressed, cold settled, cool fermentation, aged 10 months in French oak barrels on the lees with stirring throughout the aging process. The best barrels from each lot were selected for the Wildcat Mountain blend. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. A polished, refreshing wine with clean aromas of lemon, pineapple and brioche leading to flavors of lemon, vanilla and toasty, buttery oak. Easy to drink, with uplifting energy, generous fruit flavors and admirable balance. Score: 91. Reviewed December 1, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Cummings Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 487 cases, $56, screwcap. Sourced from a vineyard partner, Bruce Cummings, whose vineyard is located in the Santa Rosa Plains neighborhood of the Russian River Valley. Clones 667, 777 and 115. 100% de-stemmed, inoculated yeast fermentation following a 3-day cold soak, and aged 12 months in French oak barrels. · Light cherry red in color. Aromas of red cherry, oregano and sawmill. Light in weight with a core of red fruits in an elegantly style wine with cedar-infused and spicy oak in the background. A demure, even mildly shallow, but charming wine that has commendable balance. Score: 88. Reviewed June 18, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Goldrock Ridge Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 441 cases, $56, screwcap. This vineyard is located in the remote reaches of northwestern Sonoma County, a few miles from the Pacific Ocean near Annapolis. At 780-feet elevation, the site is exposed to marine air that frequently brings fog. The result is delayed ripening of mature vines which are grown on low vigor, gravelly loam soil. Clones are 777 and “828.” 100% de-stemmed, inoculated yeast strains, 3-day cold soak, pump-overs and punchdowns. Barrel aged for 17 months in French oak, 40% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of fresh blackberry compote and spice. Exuberant mid weight plus flavors of black raspberry and boysenberry satisfy on the attack and mid palate. Highly flavorful, beautifully ripened fruit backed by crisp acidity and filigree tannins in an impeccably balanced wine that deserves high accolades, especially for the intensely fruited, ebullient finish. Score: 94. Reviewed December 1, 2016 ARTICLE »

2014 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 1,100 cases, $56, screwcap. Produced and bottled by MacRostie Winery & Vineyards, Sonoma, CA.. Vineyard is owned by Steve MacRostie and his partners Nancy and Tony Lilly. The vines are planted in sparse volcanic soils and must withstand the maritime breezes off the Pacific Ocean. Vines planted in 1998 and 2000. Dijon and Pommard clones. The grapes were gently de-stemmed into open-top fermenters, 3-day cold soak, inoculated yeast fermentation, cap management with a combination of pump overs and punch downs. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels. · Light ruby red color in the glass. Cozy aromas of cherry, spice and worn leather. Elegant in the mouth in a middleweight style, offering an array of juicy, dark red fruit flavors accented with toasty, smoky oak. Silky and easy to cozy up to, with a finish that lingers appealingly. Score: 92. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.5% alc., 32,000 cases, $25, screwcap. A blend of grapes from multiple vineyards in the Sonoma Coast appellation. Full malolactic fermentation. 85% of the wine was aged in French oak barrels (20% new) for 6 months on the lees with occasional stirring, and 15% of the wine was aged in stainless steel. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Lovely aromas of ripe peach, Asian pear and lemon wafer. Bright, crisp and clean flavors of lemonlime with a lasting finish driven by citrus tang. Beautifully crafted with just a hint of oak adding interest. Score: 90. Reviewed July 13, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.5% alc., 25,000 cases, $25, screwcap. Sourced from several vineyards in the Sonoma Coast including Sangiacomo, Dutton Ranch, Martinelli Woolsey Road and Goldrock Ridge vineyards. Whole cluster pressed, racked into French oak barrels for fermentation, 20% of which were new. 100% malolactic fermentation, aged on the lees for six months with occasional stirring. A few lots were fermented in stainless steel tanks and never went to barrel. · Moderately light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. I was enamored with the nose which kept pumping out aromas of lemon, spiced pear, golden apple and brioche. Easygoing on the palate, soft and smooth, with flavors of lemon, pear and toast embraced by acidity that is not too assertive. An impressive and very affordable appellation offering. Score: 90. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.2% alc., 521 cases, $32, screwcap. More than 70% of the grapes come from Matthew’s Station Vineyard planted by the Knude family and farmed today by the Dutton family. Robert Young clone. Some grapes from Mirabel and Wohler vineyards are mixed in. Harvest Brix 23.2º-24.5º. Whole cluster pressed, 85% malolactic fermentation. Aged 9 months on the lees in 100% French oak barrels, 18% new. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. Inviting aromas of lemon oil, lemongrass and buttered brioche. Good fullness of citrus and pear flavor, yet vibrant, with a crisp and refreshing finish. A style that really satisfies. Score: 90. Reviewed July 13, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

4,661 cases, $34. Sourced from vineyards in the Sonoma Coast AVA, including Champlin Creek and Wildcat Mountain in Petaluma Gap, Hellenthal in Fort Ross-Seaview, and Dutton-Winkler Ranch in the Russian River Valley. 100% de-stemmed, 3- day cold soak, inoculated yeast, punchdowns and pumpovers, aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. The nose is both fruity and savory with scents of cherry, strawberry, spice, dried herbs and turned earth. The flavors echo the aromas with some added raspberry notes. Light to mid weight in style and very pleasant, with good vibrancy and silky tannins, finishing modestly with red cherry goodness. Score: 89. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.5% alc.,1,075 cases, $40, screwcap. Grapes come exclusively from this estate vineyard owned by Steve MacRostie and his partners Nancy and Tony Lily. The wines are planted in sparse volcanic soil and are subjected to strong maritime winds and fog. Four blocks, four clones. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented, 100% malolactic fermentation, aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 18% new, 18% one-year-old and the rest older, lees stirred several times. The best barrels from each lot were selected for this bottling. · Moderately light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Pleasing aromas of lemon curd, cut yellow apple and nutty oak. Slightly plush in the mouth, with riveting flavors of grilled peach, lemon creme and wood sap. Nicely put together with impeccable harmony and a refreshing charge of lemon goodness on the finish. Score: 92. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 396 cases, $42, screwcap. Sourced from several vineyards include the winery’s Thale’s Vineyard as well as Flax, Tina Maria, and Widdoes Ranch. Harvest Brix varied from 24.9º to 26.2º on four separate days. 100% de-stemmed into 1-ton fermenters. Aged in French oak barrels, 25% new, 40% one-year-old, and the rest neutral. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, sandalwood, nutty oak and discrete spices. Forward drinking and balanced, with mid weight flavors of black cherry and strawberry framed by modest tannins. A solid everyday drinker and an admirable example of the Russian River Valley appellation. Score: 88. Reviewed June 5, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Sangiacomo Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay

14.6% alc., 291 cases, $44, screwcap. Vineyard is located in southern Sonoma Valley and planted on silty clay loam soils. Steve has worked with grapes from this vineyard since his first vintage at MacRostie in 1987. Harvest Brix 24.5º. Whole cluster pressed. Barrel fermented in about 17% new French oak barrels and aged on the lees for 10 months. 100% malolactic fermentation. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Aromas of grilled lemon, brioche and caramel lead to a deliciously rich core of fresh citrus fruits including lemon and grapefruit. Very round with sound acidity, and inviting extract on the finish which has the slightest bit of warmth. Score: 91. Reviewed July 13, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Dutton Ranch Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.6% alc., 285 cases, $46, screwcap. A selection of the twelve best barrels made from this vineyard. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented, 100% malolactic fermentation, aged 10 months on lees with occasional stirring in 100% French oak barrels, 20% new. · Moderately light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. A nose with intent, offering scents of lemon oil, white peach, vanilla pod, creme brulee and a fleeting floral note. Beautifully balanced with juicy flavors of lemon-lime and honey augmented with a deft touch of toasty oak. Highly enjoyable, with a pleasing cut of lemon-driven acidity on the uplifting finish. Score: 91. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 887 cases, $50, screwcap. This is an estate vineyard owned by Steve MacRostie and his partners Nancy and Tony Lilly located on a fog-shrouded mountaintop. Clones 115 and Pommard. 100% de-stemmed into small open-top fermenters, 3-day cold soak, inoculated yeast strains, aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 43% new. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. The aromas of red cherry, baking spice and sandalwood draw you into the glass. This wine delivers more flavor than the light color would suggest. There is a earthy and feral side to the black cherry fruit, herb and mushroom flavors. The mid palate fullness is pleasant, the tannins are well-matched, and the wine finishes in classy style with panache. Score: 92. Reviewed June 5, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Cummings Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 184 cases, $56. This vineyard is owned by Bruce Cummings and is located in the Santa Rosa Plains neighborhood of the Russian River Valley. Charlie Chenoweth manages the vineyard. Clones 667, 777 and 115. 100% de-stemmed, inoculated yeast, combination of pumpovers and punchdowns, aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Vivid Bing cherry aromas leads to a light to mid weight styled wine fueled by black cherry, black raspberry, boysenberry and color flavors. Quite elegant, flawless integration of silky tannins and acidity, and noticeable length on the sumptuous finish. Score: 92. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Goldrock Ridge Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 428 cases, $56, screwcap. This vineyard is located a few miles from the Pacific Ocean near the town of Annapolis in the far western Sonoma Coast. Clones 777 and “828” are planted in Goldridge sandy loam soils at an elevation of 780 feet above the fog layer. 100% de-stemmed, 3-day cold soak, inoculated yeast strains, aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 35% new. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. This wine is nicely endowed with aromas and flavors of red cherry, strawberry, baking spices, blonde caramel and roasted nuts. Light to mid weighted, with gentle tannins, admirable elegance and plenty of Pinot personality. Score: 91. Reviewed June 5, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 MacRostie Manzana Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., 95 cases, $56. This vineyard is farmed by the Dutton family. Only 4 best barrels were chosen from this vineyard for this wine. 100% de-stemmed, pumpovers and punchdowns, aged 12 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Orchard cherry aromas are accented with savory dried herb scents. Richly appointed and intensely fruity, with flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and pomegranate that saturate the palate. Despite its hefty sap and defined tannins, the wine retains a silky texture and elegance, making for easy drinking now. A charismatic wine with both power and gentility. Score: 93. Reviewed January 17, 2016 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

14.1% alc., 24,372 cases, $25, screwcap. Sourced from multiple Sonoma Coast, Sonoma Carneros and Russian River Valley vineyards. Whole cluster pressed, 100% MLF, aged 6 months on the lees in French oak barrels with occasional battonage, 18% of which were new. A few lots were fermented in stainless steel. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of lemon, jasmine and toasty oak. Welcoming flavors of apple, pear and citrus with a hint of nutty oak. Slightly creamy in the mouth with a bright, citrus-infused finish that urges the drinker to take another sip. Score: 89. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Russian River Valley Chardonnay

406 cases, $32, screwcap. The majority of the grapes were from Keefer Ranch and Dutton-Jewell Ranch, both in the Green Valley of Russian River Valley. Whole cluster pressed, partial MLF, aged on the lees for 9 months in French oak barrels, 21% of which were new. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. A solid offering featuring aromas of lemon-lime, fresh-cut apple and mango. Slightly viscous on the palate with flavors of citrus, apple, brioche and butter toffee, finishing with a wealth of apple flavor. Score: 88. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 4,174 cases, $34, screwcap. Sourced from Champlain Creek and Wildcat Mountain vineyards in the Sonoma Coast, Hellenthal Vineyard in Fort Ross-Seaview, and Dutton-Hallberg Ranch in the Russian River Valley. 100% de-stemmed, inoculated yeast fermentation, punch downs and pump overs, aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 30% of which were new. · Moderately light ruby color in the glass. Aromas and flavors of cherry, plum and huckleberry with a complimentary touch of spice and oak. Soft and smooth in the mouth with balanced tannins and some finishing fruit presence. Easy to drink. Score: 89. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

763 cases, $38. Whole cluster pressed, 100% MLF, aged 10 months on the lees with battonage in French oak barrels, 21% of which were new. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. Demure but pleasing aromas of lemon rind, honey, juniper berry and toasty oak lead to tightly wound flavors of lemon, butterscotch, vanilla and toast with a hint of sea spray in the background. Distinctively different from the other MacRostie Chardonnays, this wine challenges the senses, and offers the most lingering finish. Score: 92. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 486 cases, $42, screwcap. Sourced from several vineyards. 100% de-stemmed, punch downs twice a day in 5-ton fermenters, aged in French oak barrels of which 26% were new, 31% one-year-old and the remaining neutral. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The nose opens with appealing aromas of black cherry and dark raspberry, but oak-driven scents of char and tobacco smoke take over. More appealing on the palate where the wine is relatively light in weight with inviting elegance. Forward and easy drinking with a modest attack of Bing cherry, cola and sassafras flavors backed by lively acidity and mild tannins, the wine finishes with an array of darker stone and berry fruits. Score: 88. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Dutton Ranch Russian River Valley Chardonnay

281 cases, $44, screwcap. Whole cluster pressed, 100% MLF, aged on the lees with occasional battonage for 10 months in French oak barrels, 25% of which were new. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. A complex offering with plenty of aromatic goodness including scents of white peach, lemon rind, tangerine and floral bouquet. Very pleasing in the mouth with a slightly viscous texture, beautifully integrated oak highlights, and pleasing lemon and apple flavors. Great harmony, finishing with admirable tension and citrus infused delight. Score: 92. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Sangiacomo Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay

177 cases, $44, screwcap. Whole cluster pressed, 100% MLF, aged 10 months on the lees in French oak barrels. After assembling the blend, seven barrels were chosen, two of which were new. · Light golden straw color and clear in the glass. Plenty to like in this wine with hi-tone aromas of lemon curd, honeysuckle, vanilla and toast. Plenty of acidic verve compliments and lifts the lemon, pear and biscuit flavors. Good fullness and creaminess on the palate with a tangy, lemon and pear infused finish. Score: 90. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 878 cases, $48, screwcap. Mostly clones 667 and 777. 100% de-stemmed, inoculated yeast fermentation, combination of punch downs and punch overs, aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 28% of which were new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Alluring scents of cherry, raspberry, underbrush, spice and subtle oak. Seamless and polished, with mid weight flavors of cherry and red berries accented with a hint of spice and citrus. Very classy, with soft tannins and a dry, refined finish with impressive length. A sensual wine with nuance. Score: 91. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 MacRostie Goldrock Ridge Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 290 cases, $54, screwcap. Clones 777 and “828.” 100% de-stemmed, inoculated yeast fermentation, a combination of pump overs and punch downs. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 30% of which were new. · Medium reddish purple color in the glass. Inviting aromas of black cherry pie glaze, blackberry jam, oak cask and pipe smoke. Crisp and vibrant, with layers of flavor including dark red and purple berries, black cherry, anise and black tea. Veers to the riper side but retains impressive Pinot character. Lively acidity drives the refreshing and very lengthy finish which is highly satisfying. Score: 92. Reviewed January 23, 2015 ARTICLE »

2007 MacRostie Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 1,000 cases, $30. Steve MacRostie owner, Kevin W. Holt winemaker. · Blackberry and plum aromas arrive over time in the glass with interesting nuances of underbrush, oak and Asian 5-spice. A husky, rugged wine featuring black raspberry and blackberry flavors backed by a good grip of citric acidity and complimented by an earthy, stem accent. The silky texture adds to the appeal. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »