Dec 30, 2022
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Anthill Farms
| Owner(s) | Anthony Filiberti, David Low, Webster Marquez |
| Web site | www.anthillfarms.com |
| Link to this site |
This project is one of many that has ties with Williams Selyem. Three young Pinot amigos, who had worked together as cellar hands at the distinguished winery on Westside Road launched their own winery with three Pinot Noir releases in 2004. David Low, Anthony Filiberti and Webster Marquez hit the road after harvest ended in 2003 at Williams Selyem and toured wineries in Oregon's Willamette Valley. The idea of forming their own winery hatched on that trip.
Anthony Filiberti grew up in Sonoma County and was lured to wine at an early age. He learned winemaking at Bergstrom Winery in Newberg, Oregon, Hafner Vineyards in the Alexander Valley, and Williams Selyem. David Low grew up in Kansas but got hooked on wine while attending University of California Berkeley. A short stint as a computer programmer was followed by a change of heart and he later worked at both Williams Selyem and Papapietro Perry. Low is now an assistant winemaker at Papapietro Perry Winery. Webster Marquez grew up on the East Coast and attended college in Virginia. Here he began working as an assistant winemaker at Jefferson Vineyards. He then moved to Sonoma County where he joined Williams Selyem. Currently he is the winemaker at C. Donatiello Winery in Healdsburg.
The trio’s goal is to craft Pinot Noirs that “express the growing site and the characteristics of the vintage, and above all else, taste good.” They disdain the riper style of Pinot Noir, looking more for freshness of flavor and acidity. Some whole clusters are included in the winemaking. New oak is limited to about 30%. Racking, fining and filtering is avoided.
The emphasis at Anthill Farms is on the vineyards and have named their winery Anthill Farms to emphasize the many tiny individual vineyards that form “the link between place and product.” The trio avoid calling attention to themselves, preferring to bring notoriety to their winegrowers. Their grape sources are North Coast vineyards in Sonoma and Mendocino counties. They also farm a small vineyard named Abbey-Harris high above Boonville in the Anderson Valley.
The annual production of 1,400 cases is quickly snapped up by a mailing list. Anthill Farms Winery is located at 4791 Dry Creek Road, #3-4, Healdsburg (in the Papapietro Perry winery). Tasting by appointment - phone Dave at 707-490-5191 or e-mail Webster at webster@anthillfarms.com.
I have been a big fan of the Anthill Farms Pinot Noirs since the first release and find them consistently in the top tier of producers in the Russian River Valley.
Articles About Anthill Farms
Adventures Along the Pinot Trail, Part 3 (6.34 7/30/2007)
Along the Pinot Trail in California: Part 2 - North Coast & Other (9.8 6/24/2012)
Anderson Noir Valley Pinot (Pt I) (7.18 5/26/2009)
Anthill Farms (7.3 10/1/2008)
More Sips of California Pinot Noir (8.37 5/13/2011)
Pinot Briefs (11.42 4/14/2019)
Pinot Briefs (9.3 2/22/2012)
Pinot Noirs from Producers Outside the Anderson Valley that Source Grapes from within the Anderson Valley (6.60 6/9/2008)
Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir (9.34 12/17/2013)
Sips of Recently Tasted Sonoma County Pinot Noir (10.31 6/5/2016)
Small Sips of Pinot (8.16 6/8/2010)
Well-Bred Pinots Tasted Recently (6.24 4/30/2007)
Wine Briefings (12.20 8/2/2021)
Reviewed Wines
2018 Anthill Farms Campbell Ranch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., $44. Vineyard is near Annapolis
on the fog line at 750 feet. Farmed by Steve Campbell.
·
Pleasant aromas of underbrush, floral goodness,
cherry, strawberry and cocoa. Infused with blueberry and dark red cherry fruit with a hint of oak-driven cocoa
and vanilla. Silky, with gentle tannins and a slightly tart cherry finish.
Score: 92.
Reviewed August 1, 2021
ARTICLE »
2014 Anthill Farms Campbell Ranch Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., $52. Sourced from a
vineyard near Annapolis situated above the Pacific Coast at the fog line at 750 feet elevation farmed with
owner Steve Campbell.
·
Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is both savory and fruity,
offering a mix of earthy flora, stem and rose petal aromas, as well as aromas of blue and black berries. A bit
closed at this stage, but giving enough flavors of blueberry, pomegranate and black raspberry to satisfy.
Elegant, with frisky acidity, like able polish and balance, and an appealing feral quality.
Score: 91.
Reviewed June 5, 2015
ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $40. This vineyard has been
farmed by Randy Peters for over 25 years.
·
Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of Bing
cherries and spice lead to a rich, plush core of Bing cherry fruit with some blackberry and spice in the
background. Soft in the mouth with sinewy tannins and a good cut of acidity, with a finish which of noteworthy
lengthy.
Score: 90.
Reviewed December 18, 2013
ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $44. This vineyard is located a few miles from
the Mendocino coastline just north of the town of Navarro and is dryfarmed
by the Weir family.
·
Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass.
Enticing aromas of black cherry pie glaze, peat, potpourri, sea breeze
and a touch of oak. Delicious marriage of black cherry and blackberry
fruit with a compliment of spice and anise. A little earthiness grounds
the wine which really attracts your attention with impressive depth of flavor and
class. The tannins are nicely balanced, the acidity is harmonious, and the finish
is fruit-filled and generous. Extraordinary in this very cool vintage.
Score: 94.
Reviewed December 18, 2013
ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., $44. Demuth Vineyard is
located at 1,500 feet elevation above the town of Boonville and owned and farmed by Knez Winery.
·
Moderately light red in color. Aromas of strawberry, red cherry, clove spice and an imposing note of smoky oak.
Oak-kissed dark red strawberry and raspberry flavors on a mid weight frame, with a finish of modest length.
The delicate and juicy fruit is overwhelmed by the dark oak imprint.
Score: 86.
Reviewed December 18, 2013
ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Abbey Harris Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $48. Abbey Harris is a
2-acre vineyard located 1,100 feet above the town of Boonville and farmed by Dona Abbey and Dan Harris.
·
Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of red cherry, slate and bark. Middleweight flavors of dark
red cherry with an underpinning of humus and oak. Soft in the mouth with substantial tannins which tend to
wrestle with the fruit. Reasonably good cherry-driven finish. This wine doesn’t currently deliver a message, but
may surprise with more time in bottle.
Score: 88.
Reviewed December 18, 2013
ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., $34 First release of this bottling.
·
Medium
reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of red plums, crushed red grapes, rose petals, soy and spice with a
hint of volatile acidity. The flavors follow in step with an added floral riff, backed by a mouth-puckering, tight,
citrusy acidity. The acidity is disarming and the wine is out of balance. Decent (-).
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Campbell Ranch Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., $44 From a vineyard
near Annapolis in the fog line at 750 feet. 12 year-old vines. Planted in 2002 and farmed by owner Steve
Campbell.
·
Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Very muted nose initially, slowly opening over time in the
glass to reveal aromas of darker berries and cherries, tea leaf, graham and spice. An elegant, bright and
slightly lean wine, with flavors of dark red cherries and berries including cranberries, finishing with citrus-driven
acidity adding a lift to the sweet fruit. Good (+).
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $44 This vineyard is located in
the hills west of Sebastopol. Farmed by Randy Peters for over 20 years. Pommard and 777.
·
Moderate
reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromatically pleasing with a perfume of dark cherries, savory herbs and
seasoned oak. Middleweight flavors of cherries, herbs, grilled mushrooms and vanilla creme with well
balanced tannins and acidity. Soft in the mouth with enticing drink ability. Very good.
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
12.6% alc., $44. This vineyard is
located in the Green Valley and is farmed by owners Ron Black and Stephen Bessone.
·
Medium reddish-purple
color in the glass. The nose unfolds slowly in the glass, revealing aromas of dark red cherries and raspberries
with hints of clove and other spices. Relatively light in weight and somewhat lean in style, with flavorful black
cherry fruit caressed by supple tannins, and underlain with tight acidity. Admirable length with welcome
freshness and accessibility. Good (+).
Reviewed June 24, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $39.
·
Moderately light reddish-orange color in
the glass. Faint aromas of red berries with a floral and minty oak overtone. Light in weight with flavors of red
cherries and blood oranges, sporting mild slightly grainy tannins, bright acidity and some tartness on the finish.
Disappointing at this price level. Decent.
Reviewed May 15, 2011
ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $44. This 3-acre vineyard is situated north of Navarro
above the town of Comptche and just inland from the northern
Mendocino Coast. It is dry-farmed by the Weir family. Planted
exclusively to Swan clone, yields are 1 ton per acre.
·
Medium dark
purple-red color in the glass. This wine is very upfront after opening.
Deep, dark and mysterious nose offering aromas of blackberries, black plums,
underbrush and subtle oak. Impressive fruit intensity on the attack and on the
finish which persists for what seems like a minute. Rugged and masculine in
character with ripe, firm tannins yet possessed with a modicum of finesse.
Displays an earth and mineral laden undertone that speaks to the terroir of this region. Spectacular the next
day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Reviewed November 29, 2011
ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., $44. This 20-year-old vineyard sits at 1,400 to 1,600 feet
above Boonville and is farmed by Anthony Filiberti and the Knez family
who own the property. Clones are Pommard and Wädenswil.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Deeply aromatic with
scents of dark cherries, pipe smoke, spice and seasoned oak. Crisp and
bright on the palate with vivid flavors of dark red cherries, raspberries and
cranberries with subtle hints of spice and smoke. Pillowy tannins create a very
smooth mouth feel. Terrific the next day from a previously opened and re-corked
bottle.
Reviewed November 29, 2011
ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $50. From a site in the Green Valley farmed by Ron Black and
Stephen Bessone.
·
Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Opens
with appealing raspberry on jam aromas, fading in the glass. The flavors are
more promising, with a tasty core of Morello cherry and black raspberry, an
herbal note and a good tug of citrus on the hi-wire finish. Good.
Reviewed May 15, 2011
ARTICLE »
2008 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
12.9% alc., $42. From a remote and dry-farmed 2-acre vineyard north of
Navarro managed organically by the Weir family. Exclusively Swan selection.
Yields were only one ton per acre.
·
Darker fruits are featured on the nose with a
heavy dose of toasted oak and a hint of smoke. Moderately intense core of
black raspberry and plum fruit with a smoky undertone. The finish has a good
grip of acidity and admirable persistence. Best of the three 2008 Anthill Farms
Pinot Noirs tasted. Good.
Reviewed June 8, 2010
ARTICLE »
2008 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $42. This vineyard has been
farmed by Randy Peters and his father-in-law, Tom Mukaida, for over 20 years. A mix of Dijon 777 and
Pommard clones.
·
Moderately light in color. Reserved aromas of dark red berries, tea and oak. Dilute and tart
on the palate with spiced red cherry and red berry flavors. A lean wine that needs food. Good.
Reviewed June 8, 2010
ARTICLE »
2008 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., $46. This Green
Valley vineyard is farmed by Ron Black and Stephen Bessone.
·
Aromas of green garden, green olive, and wild
berries. Redder fruit is the focus with a green tea note underlying the fruit flavors. Zingy acidity brings up the
finish which is a bit flat. Decent.
Reviewed June 8, 2010
ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $33.
·
Lightest in color of
the 2007 lineup. A tasty wine driven by black cherry aromas and flavors with admirable
finesse and good grip on the dry finish. Drinking nicely now. Not extraordinary, but very
decent.
Reviewed May 26, 2009
ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc.,
$42. This vineyard sits at 1,500 feet on a ridge above Boonville. Originally
planted by the Demuth family and now owned by the Knez family, the vineyard is
20 years old. Wädenswil and Pommard clones.
·
Yields were less than one ton per
acre. Brooding and restrained aromas of dark fruits, toast and spice. Packed with
sappy dark stone fruit with a faint vein of citrus in the background and sporting
flamboyant tannins. Still closed and unyielding. A well-endowed wine with great
cleavage that, given enough time, will be the best wine in the 2007 lineup. Match now with
full-flavored food.
Reviewed May 26, 2009
ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $42. This
vineyard is located in the hills west of Sebastopol and has been farmed by Randy Peters
and his father-in-law, Tom Mukaida for over 20 years. The clones are Pommard and Dijon
777. Yields were less than two tons per acre.
·
This wine smells of the earth with added
notes of cherries, berries and some oak. Picks up intensity in the glass becoming more
fruity and adding Indian spice over time. A diaphanous and silky wine that carries the
earthy aromas and spice through to the finish with citrus in the background. Primarily
cherry flavored with lively acidity creating a tart finish. The wine picks up intensity in the
glass which is always a good sign of longevity.
Reviewed May 26, 2009
ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc.,
$46. From a Green Valley vineyard farmed by Ron Black and Stephen Bessone. Yields
were two tons per acre.
·
This wine sports the ripest fruit in the lineup. Alluring perfume of
black cherries, root beer, vanillin and subtle spices. Rich and well ripened Bing cherry fruit
with a touch of cola and oak. Elegant and harmonious with gossamer tannins and a mild
grip of citrus peel on the finish.
Reviewed May 26, 2009
ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Windsor Oaks Vineyard Russian River Valley Syrah
14.5% alc., $25.
·
Deep, dark ruby
color. Penetrating aromas of black raspberries, toast, char and fragrant flowers. Copious dark fruit obscured
by overwhelming tannins, oak char and smoke. Needs a big grilled steak.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $32.
·
Light crimson in color. Cinnamon
spice, cherry, cardamom aromas which are nose-filling. With time in the glass there are more confected
grape fruit notes with a touch of alcohol peeking out. Light-weighted and elegant,
the wine shows off very appealing cherry and raspberry flavors.. Nothing
epiphanic but a good drink and perfect for the table.
Reviewed June 9, 2008
ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $39.
·
A very
floral and fruity nose with just a touch of alcohol. Nicely oaked and candied dark fruits with a loamy bent. A
certain fig accent is appealing. Tasty and smooth with mild drying tannins. This wine will find many fans.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.6%
alc., $39.
·
Light crimson robe. Complex nose showing black cherry, truffle, oak
and toffee. Charismatic dark stone fruits with an earthy tone. Healthy tannic
backbone. Creamy texture and a slightly dry finish. This will only get better with
cellaring. I could drink this all night.
Reviewed June 9, 2008
ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.7%
alc., $39 .
·
Like the 2005 version of this wine. a wine of charisma. Bing
cherry fruit, nicely spiced and deftly oaked makes this wine a delight to
drink. Lighter in color, it is an elegantly styled wine, still retaining some
soft tannins that need shedding and finishing clean with a brisk and citric finish. Might be a bit austere and
acidic for some, but will partner with food beautifully.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $44.
·
Complex
aromatics featuring wild strawberries, ripe cherries, wildflowers, black olive and exotic woods. Full-on attack of
cherries on the palate with earthy accents. Nicely balanced and soft in the mouth, this wine goes down easy.
Not a blockbuster, but quite satisfying.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Abbey Harris Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc.. This 1.5-acre vineyard is located on a rocky slope at 1,100
feet overlooking the town of Boonville in the Anderson Valley. The owners,
Dona Abbey and Dan Harris, farm the vineyard with the Anthill Farms crew.
·
A wine on the dark side from color, to aromas, to flavors. The nose features dark stone fruits, herbs from
Provence and a touch of alcohol. Dark fruits carry the palate attack leading to a dry finish with citrus
(grapefruit) highlights. A simple, decent wine.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.8% alc.. This vineyard is dry-farmed by the Weir Family and
is located north of Navarro, a few miles inland from the Mendocino Coast.
·
Loamy crushed dark ripe berries with a smoky edge. Appealing richness
and respectable acidity with a clean, tangy finish. My only nit is a touch of
green tomato in the flavor profile. Decent, but not as good as the 2006
version.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.4% alc..
·
The powerful aromas shot out of the bottle when
the cork was pulled. Extremely fragrant fruit-driven scents of ripe
cherries and berries with a hint of plum and marzipan. Absolutely
delicious dark red fruits complimented by notes of spice, vanilla
and coffee. A complete wine that is impeccably balanced.
Everything you could hope for in Pinot Noir.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.9% alc.. Peters Vineyard is just west of
Sebastopol and has been farmed by Randy Peters for more than twenty years.
·
Terrific aromatics that make the
hair stand up on the back of your neck: juicy cherries, cardamon and other spices, and toasty oak. Lovely
cherry flavors enhanced by subtle toast notes, sporting a comforting creamy texture. The acidity is just right,
toned down from the 2006 vintage of this wine. Refined and ornate with plenty to like here. Age (of vines) has
its rewards.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Tina Maria Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.. This vineyard is
located in the cool Green Valley sub-appellation of the Russian River Valley and is farmed by Ron Black and
Stephan Bessone.
·
Flamboyant scents of confected cherries, violets and dried herbs that just wont quit. Herbdusted
deep red fruits with a hint of oak, a zippy acid backbone and a tangerine peel finish. Deeper and more
structured than the 2006 version. A nicely crafted wine that has plenty of aromatic charm. Prefers this over the
2006 vintage.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Winery Tina Marie Vineyard
$43.
·
Marvelous wine with elegant fruit and
spice to spare. Soft in texture with a nice acid lift on the finish.
Reviewed July 30, 2007
ARTICLE »
2004 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., 123 cases, $35. This venerable vineyard is now over 20 years old. At 1,400 to 1,600 feet
above the valley floor near Boonville, it is exposed to strong winds and cool nights. The clones are
Pommard and Wädenswil. Yields are ridiculously low.
·
The accessible nose exhibits dried cherry and
floral notes with anise playing a role with air time. The flavors are a symphony of sweet cherries and minerality.
A great acid spine portends a long life ahead.
Reviewed April 30, 2007
ARTICLE »
2004 Anthill Farms Peter’s Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.6%
alc., 52 cases, $35. Randy Peters and father-in-law Tom Mukaida farm this
vineyard located just outside Sebastopol in western Sonoma County. The
vines were planted over 15 years ago on a steep, east-facing slope of
goldridge soils. Clones are Pommard and 777.
·
The aromatics are very
alluring featuring cherry wood and a hint of red Jolly Rancher. The black
cherry core of flavors is enhanced by a subtle kiss of mocha. Finesse is the
key word here as the wine flows smoothly over the palate and finishes
cleanly with a trace of oak and a kick of acid. Like all good Pinots, it gains in
the glass over time and is still good the next day. This one was kissed by an
angel.
Reviewed April 30, 2007
ARTICLE »
2018 Anthill Farms Campbell Ranch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., $44. Vineyard is near Annapolis on the fog line at 750 feet. Farmed by Steve Campbell. · Pleasant aromas of underbrush, floral goodness, cherry, strawberry and cocoa. Infused with blueberry and dark red cherry fruit with a hint of oak-driven cocoa and vanilla. Silky, with gentle tannins and a slightly tart cherry finish. Score: 92. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »
2014 Anthill Farms Campbell Ranch Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., $52. Sourced from a vineyard near Annapolis situated above the Pacific Coast at the fog line at 750 feet elevation farmed with owner Steve Campbell. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is both savory and fruity, offering a mix of earthy flora, stem and rose petal aromas, as well as aromas of blue and black berries. A bit closed at this stage, but giving enough flavors of blueberry, pomegranate and black raspberry to satisfy. Elegant, with frisky acidity, like able polish and balance, and an appealing feral quality. Score: 91. Reviewed June 5, 2015 ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $40. This vineyard has been farmed by Randy Peters for over 25 years. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of Bing cherries and spice lead to a rich, plush core of Bing cherry fruit with some blackberry and spice in the background. Soft in the mouth with sinewy tannins and a good cut of acidity, with a finish which of noteworthy lengthy. Score: 90. Reviewed December 18, 2013 ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $44. This vineyard is located a few miles from the Mendocino coastline just north of the town of Navarro and is dryfarmed by the Weir family. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Enticing aromas of black cherry pie glaze, peat, potpourri, sea breeze and a touch of oak. Delicious marriage of black cherry and blackberry fruit with a compliment of spice and anise. A little earthiness grounds the wine which really attracts your attention with impressive depth of flavor and class. The tannins are nicely balanced, the acidity is harmonious, and the finish is fruit-filled and generous. Extraordinary in this very cool vintage. Score: 94. Reviewed December 18, 2013 ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., $44. Demuth Vineyard is located at 1,500 feet elevation above the town of Boonville and owned and farmed by Knez Winery. · Moderately light red in color. Aromas of strawberry, red cherry, clove spice and an imposing note of smoky oak. Oak-kissed dark red strawberry and raspberry flavors on a mid weight frame, with a finish of modest length. The delicate and juicy fruit is overwhelmed by the dark oak imprint. Score: 86. Reviewed December 18, 2013 ARTICLE »
2011 Anthill Farms Abbey Harris Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $48. Abbey Harris is a 2-acre vineyard located 1,100 feet above the town of Boonville and farmed by Dona Abbey and Dan Harris. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of red cherry, slate and bark. Middleweight flavors of dark red cherry with an underpinning of humus and oak. Soft in the mouth with substantial tannins which tend to wrestle with the fruit. Reasonably good cherry-driven finish. This wine doesn’t currently deliver a message, but may surprise with more time in bottle. Score: 88. Reviewed December 18, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., $34 First release of this bottling. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of red plums, crushed red grapes, rose petals, soy and spice with a hint of volatile acidity. The flavors follow in step with an added floral riff, backed by a mouth-puckering, tight, citrusy acidity. The acidity is disarming and the wine is out of balance. Decent (-). Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Campbell Ranch Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.1% alc., $44 From a vineyard near Annapolis in the fog line at 750 feet. 12 year-old vines. Planted in 2002 and farmed by owner Steve Campbell. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Very muted nose initially, slowly opening over time in the glass to reveal aromas of darker berries and cherries, tea leaf, graham and spice. An elegant, bright and slightly lean wine, with flavors of dark red cherries and berries including cranberries, finishing with citrus-driven acidity adding a lift to the sweet fruit. Good (+). Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $44 This vineyard is located in the hills west of Sebastopol. Farmed by Randy Peters for over 20 years. Pommard and 777. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromatically pleasing with a perfume of dark cherries, savory herbs and seasoned oak. Middleweight flavors of cherries, herbs, grilled mushrooms and vanilla creme with well balanced tannins and acidity. Soft in the mouth with enticing drink ability. Very good. Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
12.6% alc., $44. This vineyard is located in the Green Valley and is farmed by owners Ron Black and Stephen Bessone. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose unfolds slowly in the glass, revealing aromas of dark red cherries and raspberries with hints of clove and other spices. Relatively light in weight and somewhat lean in style, with flavorful black cherry fruit caressed by supple tannins, and underlain with tight acidity. Admirable length with welcome freshness and accessibility. Good (+). Reviewed June 24, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., $39. · Moderately light reddish-orange color in the glass. Faint aromas of red berries with a floral and minty oak overtone. Light in weight with flavors of red cherries and blood oranges, sporting mild slightly grainy tannins, bright acidity and some tartness on the finish. Disappointing at this price level. Decent. Reviewed May 15, 2011 ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $44. This 3-acre vineyard is situated north of Navarro above the town of Comptche and just inland from the northern Mendocino Coast. It is dry-farmed by the Weir family. Planted exclusively to Swan clone, yields are 1 ton per acre. · Medium dark purple-red color in the glass. This wine is very upfront after opening. Deep, dark and mysterious nose offering aromas of blackberries, black plums, underbrush and subtle oak. Impressive fruit intensity on the attack and on the finish which persists for what seems like a minute. Rugged and masculine in character with ripe, firm tannins yet possessed with a modicum of finesse. Displays an earth and mineral laden undertone that speaks to the terroir of this region. Spectacular the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., $44. This 20-year-old vineyard sits at 1,400 to 1,600 feet above Boonville and is farmed by Anthony Filiberti and the Knez family who own the property. Clones are Pommard and Wädenswil. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Deeply aromatic with scents of dark cherries, pipe smoke, spice and seasoned oak. Crisp and bright on the palate with vivid flavors of dark red cherries, raspberries and cranberries with subtle hints of spice and smoke. Pillowy tannins create a very smooth mouth feel. Terrific the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »
2009 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $50. From a site in the Green Valley farmed by Ron Black and Stephen Bessone. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Opens with appealing raspberry on jam aromas, fading in the glass. The flavors are more promising, with a tasty core of Morello cherry and black raspberry, an herbal note and a good tug of citrus on the hi-wire finish. Good. Reviewed May 15, 2011 ARTICLE »
2008 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
12.9% alc., $42. From a remote and dry-farmed 2-acre vineyard north of Navarro managed organically by the Weir family. Exclusively Swan selection. Yields were only one ton per acre. · Darker fruits are featured on the nose with a heavy dose of toasted oak and a hint of smoke. Moderately intense core of black raspberry and plum fruit with a smoky undertone. The finish has a good grip of acidity and admirable persistence. Best of the three 2008 Anthill Farms Pinot Noirs tasted. Good. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $42. This vineyard has been farmed by Randy Peters and his father-in-law, Tom Mukaida, for over 20 years. A mix of Dijon 777 and Pommard clones. · Moderately light in color. Reserved aromas of dark red berries, tea and oak. Dilute and tart on the palate with spiced red cherry and red berry flavors. A lean wine that needs food. Good. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2008 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., $46. This Green Valley vineyard is farmed by Ron Black and Stephen Bessone. · Aromas of green garden, green olive, and wild berries. Redder fruit is the focus with a green tea note underlying the fruit flavors. Zingy acidity brings up the finish which is a bit flat. Decent. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $33. · Lightest in color of the 2007 lineup. A tasty wine driven by black cherry aromas and flavors with admirable finesse and good grip on the dry finish. Drinking nicely now. Not extraordinary, but very decent. Reviewed May 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $42. This vineyard sits at 1,500 feet on a ridge above Boonville. Originally planted by the Demuth family and now owned by the Knez family, the vineyard is 20 years old. Wädenswil and Pommard clones. · Yields were less than one ton per acre. Brooding and restrained aromas of dark fruits, toast and spice. Packed with sappy dark stone fruit with a faint vein of citrus in the background and sporting flamboyant tannins. Still closed and unyielding. A well-endowed wine with great cleavage that, given enough time, will be the best wine in the 2007 lineup. Match now with full-flavored food. Reviewed May 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $42. This vineyard is located in the hills west of Sebastopol and has been farmed by Randy Peters and his father-in-law, Tom Mukaida for over 20 years. The clones are Pommard and Dijon 777. Yields were less than two tons per acre. · This wine smells of the earth with added notes of cherries, berries and some oak. Picks up intensity in the glass becoming more fruity and adding Indian spice over time. A diaphanous and silky wine that carries the earthy aromas and spice through to the finish with citrus in the background. Primarily cherry flavored with lively acidity creating a tart finish. The wine picks up intensity in the glass which is always a good sign of longevity. Reviewed May 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $46. From a Green Valley vineyard farmed by Ron Black and Stephen Bessone. Yields were two tons per acre. · This wine sports the ripest fruit in the lineup. Alluring perfume of black cherries, root beer, vanillin and subtle spices. Rich and well ripened Bing cherry fruit with a touch of cola and oak. Elegant and harmonious with gossamer tannins and a mild grip of citrus peel on the finish. Reviewed May 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Windsor Oaks Vineyard Russian River Valley Syrah
14.5% alc., $25. · Deep, dark ruby color. Penetrating aromas of black raspberries, toast, char and fragrant flowers. Copious dark fruit obscured by overwhelming tannins, oak char and smoke. Needs a big grilled steak. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $32. · Light crimson in color. Cinnamon spice, cherry, cardamom aromas which are nose-filling. With time in the glass there are more confected grape fruit notes with a touch of alcohol peeking out. Light-weighted and elegant, the wine shows off very appealing cherry and raspberry flavors.. Nothing epiphanic but a good drink and perfect for the table. Reviewed June 9, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $39. · A very floral and fruity nose with just a touch of alcohol. Nicely oaked and candied dark fruits with a loamy bent. A certain fig accent is appealing. Tasty and smooth with mild drying tannins. This wine will find many fans. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $39. · Light crimson robe. Complex nose showing black cherry, truffle, oak and toffee. Charismatic dark stone fruits with an earthy tone. Healthy tannic backbone. Creamy texture and a slightly dry finish. This will only get better with cellaring. I could drink this all night. Reviewed June 9, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $39 . · Like the 2005 version of this wine. a wine of charisma. Bing cherry fruit, nicely spiced and deftly oaked makes this wine a delight to drink. Lighter in color, it is an elegantly styled wine, still retaining some soft tannins that need shedding and finishing clean with a brisk and citric finish. Might be a bit austere and acidic for some, but will partner with food beautifully. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Anthill Farms Tina Marie Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $44. · Complex aromatics featuring wild strawberries, ripe cherries, wildflowers, black olive and exotic woods. Full-on attack of cherries on the palate with earthy accents. Nicely balanced and soft in the mouth, this wine goes down easy. Not a blockbuster, but quite satisfying. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Abbey Harris Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc.. This 1.5-acre vineyard is located on a rocky slope at 1,100 feet overlooking the town of Boonville in the Anderson Valley. The owners, Dona Abbey and Dan Harris, farm the vineyard with the Anthill Farms crew. · A wine on the dark side from color, to aromas, to flavors. The nose features dark stone fruits, herbs from Provence and a touch of alcohol. Dark fruits carry the palate attack leading to a dry finish with citrus (grapefruit) highlights. A simple, decent wine. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir
13.8% alc.. This vineyard is dry-farmed by the Weir Family and is located north of Navarro, a few miles inland from the Mendocino Coast. · Loamy crushed dark ripe berries with a smoky edge. Appealing richness and respectable acidity with a clean, tangy finish. My only nit is a touch of green tomato in the flavor profile. Decent, but not as good as the 2006 version. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.4% alc.. · The powerful aromas shot out of the bottle when the cork was pulled. Extremely fragrant fruit-driven scents of ripe cherries and berries with a hint of plum and marzipan. Absolutely delicious dark red fruits complimented by notes of spice, vanilla and coffee. A complete wine that is impeccably balanced. Everything you could hope for in Pinot Noir. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Peters Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.9% alc.. Peters Vineyard is just west of Sebastopol and has been farmed by Randy Peters for more than twenty years. · Terrific aromatics that make the hair stand up on the back of your neck: juicy cherries, cardamon and other spices, and toasty oak. Lovely cherry flavors enhanced by subtle toast notes, sporting a comforting creamy texture. The acidity is just right, toned down from the 2006 vintage of this wine. Refined and ornate with plenty to like here. Age (of vines) has its rewards. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Tina Maria Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.. This vineyard is located in the cool Green Valley sub-appellation of the Russian River Valley and is farmed by Ron Black and Stephan Bessone. · Flamboyant scents of confected cherries, violets and dried herbs that just wont quit. Herbdusted deep red fruits with a hint of oak, a zippy acid backbone and a tangerine peel finish. Deeper and more structured than the 2006 version. A nicely crafted wine that has plenty of aromatic charm. Prefers this over the 2006 vintage. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Anthill Farms Winery Tina Marie Vineyard
$43. · Marvelous wine with elegant fruit and spice to spare. Soft in texture with a nice acid lift on the finish. Reviewed July 30, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Anthill Farms Demuth Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., 123 cases, $35. This venerable vineyard is now over 20 years old. At 1,400 to 1,600 feet above the valley floor near Boonville, it is exposed to strong winds and cool nights. The clones are Pommard and Wädenswil. Yields are ridiculously low. · The accessible nose exhibits dried cherry and floral notes with anise playing a role with air time. The flavors are a symphony of sweet cherries and minerality. A great acid spine portends a long life ahead. Reviewed April 30, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Anthill Farms Peter’s Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., 52 cases, $35. Randy Peters and father-in-law Tom Mukaida farm this vineyard located just outside Sebastopol in western Sonoma County. The vines were planted over 15 years ago on a steep, east-facing slope of goldridge soils. Clones are Pommard and 777. · The aromatics are very alluring featuring cherry wood and a hint of red Jolly Rancher. The black cherry core of flavors is enhanced by a subtle kiss of mocha. Finesse is the key word here as the wine flows smoothly over the palate and finishes cleanly with a trace of oak and a kick of acid. Like all good Pinots, it gains in the glass over time and is still good the next day. This one was kissed by an angel. Reviewed April 30, 2007 ARTICLE »