Dec 30, 2022
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Joseph Swan Vineyards
| Owner(s) | Rod Bergland |
| Web site | www.swanwinery.com |
| Link to this site |
The first vintage of Joseph Swan Pinot Noir was 1973 and was produced with consultation from the legendary Andre Tchelistcheff who was a friend of Joe Swan's. Subsequently, Swan made a string of outstanding Pinot Noirs from his vines. Despite their high quality for the time, Swan was such a perfectionist that he never was satisfied. He traveled to France every year to improve his winemaking techniques. He experimented with whole cluster fermentation, manual punch downs, and the use of new French oak barrels - all techniques that were unusual for California winemakers in the early 1970s. His legacy will include his popularization of the old, Burgundian winemaking methods, his search for better clonal material, and his openness to new idea.
Joseph Swan passed away in 1989, but his legacy and vineyard lives on thanks to the talents of Swan’s son-in-law, Rod Berglund. Rod became a winemaker in 1979, largely due to Swan’s encouragement. Rod married Swan’s daughter, Lynn, in 1986 and help Swan with his last harvest in 1987. He has taken over management and winemaking at Joseph Swan Vineyards and has continued the tradition of excellence that Joseph Swan was known for. 2009 marked 30 vintages for Berglund, the last 21 of which have been at Joseph Swan Vineyards.
The personification of Joe has been retained in the winery’s wine club which is called “Joe’s Drinking Buddies.” Rod has continued Joe’s espirit de core by maintaining the philosophy that “While consumers are demanding that wines deliver flavor, there seems to be a growing number of people who are embracing the concept of wines with food, who understand what it takes for wines to age gracefully, and who are looking for elegance and complexity instead of sheer power. The age of chocolate and vanilla may be coming to an end! Hurray for 57 flavors! It is a thrilling time to be a wine."
Joseph Swan's wife, June, passed away in January, 2010. She had retired from active involvement in the winery she co-founded back in 1969. Her car license plate was SWANPNO.
Rod crafts four consistently fine Pinot Noirs: Cuvee de Trois, Saralee's Vineyard, Trenton View Vineyard (young vines) and Trenton Estate Vineyard (the Joseph Swan estate vineyard). The 2006 vintage from the Trenton Estate Vineyard was the 34th commercial release from these vines. Cuvee de Trois was launched in 1999 as a blend of excess grapes from three vineyards. Today, it accounts for 40 percent of the winery's production. Small lots of several other varietals are produced including old-vine Zinfandel, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay.
The winery's Trenton Estate includes some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Russian River Valley. Yields are very low which in part accounts for character of the wines from this vineyard. It is planted largely to the Swan clone, more correctly referred to as the Swan selection. A portion of the newer block planted in 1996 contains six Dijon clones.
Most of the wines are sold through a mailing list with some retail distribution. The tasting room is open on weekends (check website for directions). Tasting and sales are also offered by appointment on Mondays and Fridays (707-573-3747).
Articles About Joseph Swan Vineyards
Dehlinger Winery Old Vines (10.13 6/27/2015)
Elite California Pinot Noir Vineyards Part II: North Coast - Russian River Valley (12.21 8/22/2021)
Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois (8.3 10/15/2009)
Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Pinot Noir Mini-Vertical (9.18 1/19/2013)
Joseph Swan Vineyards: A Classic (6.17 2/26/2007)
Lynmar Estate Quail Hill Vineyard (10.13 6/27/2015)
Pinot Briefs (11.41 3/22/2019)
Pinot Briefs (11.15 12/16/2017)
Recent Sips of Pinot Noir (9.48 10/6/2014)
Rod Berglund: Joseph Swan Vineyards (6.62 7/19/2008)
Sips of California Pinot Noir: Recently Sampled Wines (9.23 4/13/2013)
Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir (10.29 4/22/2016)
Well-Bred Pinots Tasted Recently (6.24 4/30/2007)
Reviewed Wines
2016 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
12.2% alc., $72.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Savory and fruity aromas of underbrush, tilled earth, charcoal,
boysenberry, blackberry and toasty oak. Ripely fruited with mid-weight plus richness. Very savory and earthy,
with fruit flavors of purple berry and blackberry. Admirable harmony with an engaging smoothness on the
palate. Highly unique in that the wine is not just about extravagant cherry fruit so common with other Russian
River Valley Pinot Noirs. The fruit rises up over time in the glass with increasing length to the finish.
Score: 94.
Reviewed August 22, 2021
ARTICLE »
2016 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Pentagon Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
12.7%
alc., 2 barrels, $100 (sold out). This one was only produced in one other year - 1997 - when it met the criteria
for a separate bottling.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Seductive aromas of cherry, rose petal, spice
box and sandy loam. The wine creates quite an impression on entry with a jubilee of well-spiced black cherry
flavor. Very soft like the hair of an angel, with great purity of fruit flavor. Highly congenial at this age with
immersed tannins and an extremely generous and lengthy finish. The wine packs plenty of flavor but leans
more toward elegance than power. My notes say, “Fantastic!.” This is one of those wines you can still taste and
remember where you drank it years later. My highest scoring Pinot Noir ever!
Score: 99.
Reviewed August 22, 2021
ARTICLE »
2013 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., $35. A
representation of the Russian River Valley as a whole with no single vineyard dominating. The wine always
includes wine from all six vineyard designates. Aged in about 33% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light
reddish purple color and slight haze (unfiltered) in the glass. The nose smells of whole berry fermentation with
aromas of rose petal, cherry and raspberry as well as mushroom and a vegetal note. The mid weight cherry
core of fruit is red-themed and lean, with a savory vegetal and floral note in the background. Juicy and slightly
tart on the finish.
Score: 87.
Reviewed April 22, 2016
ARTICLE »
2013 Joseph Swan Vineyards Catie’s Corner Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 45 cases, $38.
Newest vineyard that is located just south of Windsor and named for Rich and Saralee Knude’s daughter,
Catie. Planted in 1996 but budded over to Swan selection from Trenton Estate. Just under 1 acre in size. It is
the only 100% Swan Pinot Noir that Joseph Swan Vineyards has bottled. Even the Trenton Estate, which is
largely Swan, is not pure.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Shy initially, but picking up interest over
time in the glass, revealing aromas of dark red berries, old barrel and caramel. Red to dark red berry flavors
are featured in a middleweight style with noticeable fine-grain tannins and a slightly tart, citrus-driven finish.
Score: 88.
Reviewed April 22, 2016
ARTICLE »
2013 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.9% alc., $69. More than 40 vintages of this wine have
been produced.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose
features quite a bit of oak at this stage with fruit notes of dark berry and
cherry. This wine has the most sap of the three 2013 Joseph Swan
wines tasted here, offering flavors of cherry, strawberry and spice with
an earthy bent. Nicely balanced with modest tannins and a light touch of
oak, finishing with a slight bit of alcoholic warmth. Typically, this bottling
improves over time in the cellar and is long lived.
Score: 90.
Reviewed April 22, 2016
ARTICLE »
2012 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $55. 12 Pinot Noir clones in this 13-
acre vineyard (8 acres of Pinot Noir), including a DRC suitcase selection
and several Dijon clones (both young and old vine fruit is included). This
is the winery’s flagship offering, produced since 1973.
·
Medium reddish
purple color in the glass. The nose is pleasant but quite shy, with
aromas of black cherry, dried herbs and oak. More expressive on the
palate, with mid weight flavors of nicely ripened dark berries and
cherries, plum, spice and a hint of vanilla. There is a rustic, savory spice
character to this wine that is quite distinctive from other Russian River
Valley Pinot Noirs. A complete wine with suede-like tannins (recent
vintages have shown more tame tannins than older vintages) that is still
young and should be cellared. Trenton Estate Pinot Noirs typically age
well into their second decade.
Score: 92-93.
Reviewed October 6, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., $65.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of oak-kissed blackberry, warn leather, raisin and grilled brisket.
Noticeably silky on entry with layers of earthbound blackberry, black currant, and prune flavors in a
middleweight plus style. The tannins have receded and only slightly grippy, while the fruit still shows some
presence Showing its age but still enjoyable with a very generous blackberry-fueled finish.
Score: 90.
Reviewed August 22, 2021
ARTICLE »
2010 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $29.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Slit reduction upon opening. Aromas of black cherry, oak
cask, black tea leaf and stem with more fruit showing up over time. Juicy flavors of black cherries and dark
berries that go down easy. A little earthy with a hint of citrus in the background. The flavor picks up intensity
and interest over time in the glass. Good.
Reviewed April 13, 2013
ARTICLE »
2010 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 310 cases, $55.
·
Medium reddish-purple hue in the glass. Aromas of
dark cherries, wooded forest and rose petals. Slightly lighter in this vintage but
very flavorful featuring moderately full-bodied black cherry and plum fruits with
signature spice. Restrained but evident tannins, a polished texture, and an
exemplary finish. A little heat peaks out at the back end. Very good.
Reviewed April 13, 2013
ARTICLE »
2009 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 287 cases, $55. 40th anniversary
of Joseph Swan Vineyards and the 30th anniversary of Rod Berglund’s
first year of making wine. Aged in 66% new French oak.
·
Moderately
dark reddish-purple color in the glass. The most expressive nose in the
lineup showing vibrant aromas of black cherries, dark plums,
mushroom, cardamom spice and a hint of vanilla. Delicious earth-kissed core of
dark cherries, raspberries and plums. Rich and full-bodied, with balanced
tannins and acidity making the wine quite approachable now. Great the next
day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Could drink now because
the tannins are not aggressive, but best to hold for at least another five years. Tasted a couple of months ago,
but I held the review for this feature. A 2013 All-American for sure.
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2008 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 137
cases, $48. A challenging vintage. A spring frost led to a loss of one-third of the crop. Aged in nearly 75%
new French oak.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple hue in the glass. Fresh aromas of dark cherries, prune,
allspice, sandalwood and forest floor. The cherry core is buried in aggressive tannins with oak evident on the
very dry, astringent finish. Relatively dilute compared to other vintages. A little better the following day from a
previously opened and re-corked bottle. My least favorite of this vertical, but still a solid wine. Hold or drink.
Good.
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2007 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 1,900 cases, $28.
·
Moderately deep reddish-purple robe. Great nose that draws you in featuring aromas of Bing
cherries, red raspberries, slightest oak and violets, and a big dose of Asian Five Spice. Demure red
berry and dried cherry core with an appealing touch of earth and oak. Silky smooth and elegant with
the right mix of t n ‘a to bring the fruit into focus. Not a heavyweight, and even a little shallow in the
mid-palate, but satisfying. The moderate alcohol adds to the appeal. Very good.
Reviewed October 15, 2009
ARTICLE »
2007 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 434 cases, $47. Large crop, yet yields still less
than 2.5 tons per acre.
·
Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Vibrant aromas
of black cherries, spice and marzipan. Rich, fleshy and lush, with flavors of
fresh, juicy black cherries and cola with an earthy undercurrent. Strikingly
intense, yet has the structure and acidity to match. Tasted the next day from a
previously opened and re-corked bottle, the tannins had softened, the nose
offered intense dark chocolate notes, and the wine was simply great. Hold or
decant if drink now. Very good (+).
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2006 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 268
cases.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Rather shy bouquet, offering scents of blacker fruits,
marzipan, old shoe and brewed tea. On the ripe side with an array of flavors including black cherries, prune,
cola, forest floor and spice. Showing some fruit age, yet retaining young tannins. Good acid spine and some
length on the fruit-driven finish. Tasted the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine’s
sappy fruit veered to the overripe side with a note of sassafras. Hold or drink. Good (+).
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2006 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., 1,100 cases, $25.50.
This wine is a blend of several lots including wine from Trenton Estate and Saralee’s Vineyard in the
Russian River Valley. It is meant to be an every day wine and is quite popular on restaurant wine lists.
It is not as complex as the Swan vineyard designates.
·
Fairly light in
color. Confected cherry, red licorice, oak, spice and sage scents which build in intensity over time in the
glass. Tart red cherry and cranberry fruit with a subtle earthy and wild herbal influence. Soft and light
with a cleansing finish. An excellent food wine.
Reviewed July 19, 2008
ARTICLE »
2005 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 235
cases.
·
Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, dried roses, and carnations (slight
volatile acidity). Plush and saucy black cherry and blackberry fruits with an earthy undertone. Well-structured,
with bright acidity, a soft mouth feel, and a refreshing finish. Tasted the following day from a previously opened
and re-corked bottle, the wine was still churning out fruit-laden aromas and flavors. Hold or drink. Very good.
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2005 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3%
alc., $47.
·
Deep, dark ruby color. Terrific rich aromas of black cherry, carnations, and dried roses. Plush
black cherry and blackberry fruit that is a bit dusty and herb-tinged. Plenty of joyous fruit, but not jammy
or flabby. Good acidity, velvety texture, with some tannin to lose. Thoroughly distinctive and enjoyable.
This will only get better with more time in the bottle. One of my All-Americans this year for sure.
Reviewed July 19, 2008
ARTICLE »
2004 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 327
cases.
·
Dark black-red color in the glass. Still vigorous with flavor and character, offering a ripe palate of black
cherry fruit accented with spice, cola and earth. Well-balanced tannins with a velvety texture and a smooth,
fulfilling finish. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was still
vibrant. Many years ahead. Hold or drink. Very good.
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2004 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvee da Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $23.
·
This Pinot is a real charmer with terrific aromatics of
raspberry, tea, and spices. It is a wine of finesse and is light on its feet. No
alcohol or tannin onslaught here. You just won’t find a better Pinot Noir for this
price anywhere.
Reviewed April 30, 2007
ARTICLE »
2003 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc..
·
Moderate dark reddish-purple hue in the glass. Throwing sediment. Aromas of seasoned oak, leather, wilted
flowers, and nail polish remover (volatile acidity). Rich and saucy flavors of sweet red cherries and berries with
a hint of spice. Clean and fresh with impressive intensity on the long finish. Tasted the following day from a
previously opened and re-corked bottle, the volatile acidity had largely subsided. Hold or drink. Very good.
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2003 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $23.
This is the most popular wine in the winery’s lineup and sells out quickly after release each year. The
first year of production was only 100 cases, but this has gradually been ramped up to 1,100 cases. It is
a blend of lots including grapes from the young vines of the estate Trenton Vineyard and other vineyards
including Saralee’s Vineyard. It is meant to be an easy drinking Pinot from the time of release
and is not as complex as the vineyard designates.
·
What a nice surprise! Very lovely berry, raspberry
tea and spice aromas and flavors. The aromatics are flat-out terrific.
Not at all overblown, no alcohol or tannins to spoil the party. Very good
acid kick at the end. If you like Pinot Noir, this is your cup of tea.
Reviewed February 26, 2007
ARTICLE »
2002 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 383
cases.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Lovely bouquet of red cherries, beef, musk, old book
and oak. Soft in the mouth with supple tannins, offering flavors of red cherries and berries with an earthy
undertone. An elegant and relatively delicate wine showing its age. Fine the next day from a previously
opened and re-corked bottle, although the finish brings a little heat. Drink or hold short term. Very good.
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2002 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $40.
·
Terrific aromatics with a
little spicy cherry, cola and toast. Nicely-weighted pure, sweet fruit
with a gentle oaky edge and a lively finish uplifted by bright acidity.
This wine is not a voluptuous wine in the full-throttle California sense,
but it is thorough satisfying and really what Pinot should be but so often
falls short. Not surprisingly, it is a winner with food.
Reviewed February 26, 2007
ARTICLE »
2001 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc..
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the
glass. Aromas of black cherry, spice, forest floor and old book. Impressive
retention of fruit intensity offering tasty notes of dark cherries, dark raspberries,
cola, seasoned oak and a hint of white pepper. Soft in the mouth with some
length on the slightly astringent finish. Fine the next day from a previously
opened and re-corked bottle. Drink or hold. Very good.
Reviewed January 19, 2013
ARTICLE »
2016 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
12.2% alc., $72. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Savory and fruity aromas of underbrush, tilled earth, charcoal, boysenberry, blackberry and toasty oak. Ripely fruited with mid-weight plus richness. Very savory and earthy, with fruit flavors of purple berry and blackberry. Admirable harmony with an engaging smoothness on the palate. Highly unique in that the wine is not just about extravagant cherry fruit so common with other Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs. The fruit rises up over time in the glass with increasing length to the finish. Score: 94. Reviewed August 22, 2021 ARTICLE »
2016 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Pentagon Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
12.7% alc., 2 barrels, $100 (sold out). This one was only produced in one other year - 1997 - when it met the criteria for a separate bottling. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Seductive aromas of cherry, rose petal, spice box and sandy loam. The wine creates quite an impression on entry with a jubilee of well-spiced black cherry flavor. Very soft like the hair of an angel, with great purity of fruit flavor. Highly congenial at this age with immersed tannins and an extremely generous and lengthy finish. The wine packs plenty of flavor but leans more toward elegance than power. My notes say, “Fantastic!.” This is one of those wines you can still taste and remember where you drank it years later. My highest scoring Pinot Noir ever! Score: 99. Reviewed August 22, 2021 ARTICLE »
2013 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., $35. A representation of the Russian River Valley as a whole with no single vineyard dominating. The wine always includes wine from all six vineyard designates. Aged in about 33% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple color and slight haze (unfiltered) in the glass. The nose smells of whole berry fermentation with aromas of rose petal, cherry and raspberry as well as mushroom and a vegetal note. The mid weight cherry core of fruit is red-themed and lean, with a savory vegetal and floral note in the background. Juicy and slightly tart on the finish. Score: 87. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »
2013 Joseph Swan Vineyards Catie’s Corner Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 45 cases, $38. Newest vineyard that is located just south of Windsor and named for Rich and Saralee Knude’s daughter, Catie. Planted in 1996 but budded over to Swan selection from Trenton Estate. Just under 1 acre in size. It is the only 100% Swan Pinot Noir that Joseph Swan Vineyards has bottled. Even the Trenton Estate, which is largely Swan, is not pure. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Shy initially, but picking up interest over time in the glass, revealing aromas of dark red berries, old barrel and caramel. Red to dark red berry flavors are featured in a middleweight style with noticeable fine-grain tannins and a slightly tart, citrus-driven finish. Score: 88. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »
2013 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.9% alc., $69. More than 40 vintages of this wine have been produced. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose features quite a bit of oak at this stage with fruit notes of dark berry and cherry. This wine has the most sap of the three 2013 Joseph Swan wines tasted here, offering flavors of cherry, strawberry and spice with an earthy bent. Nicely balanced with modest tannins and a light touch of oak, finishing with a slight bit of alcoholic warmth. Typically, this bottling improves over time in the cellar and is long lived. Score: 90. Reviewed April 22, 2016 ARTICLE »
2012 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $55. 12 Pinot Noir clones in this 13- acre vineyard (8 acres of Pinot Noir), including a DRC suitcase selection and several Dijon clones (both young and old vine fruit is included). This is the winery’s flagship offering, produced since 1973. · Medium reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is pleasant but quite shy, with aromas of black cherry, dried herbs and oak. More expressive on the palate, with mid weight flavors of nicely ripened dark berries and cherries, plum, spice and a hint of vanilla. There is a rustic, savory spice character to this wine that is quite distinctive from other Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs. A complete wine with suede-like tannins (recent vintages have shown more tame tannins than older vintages) that is still young and should be cellared. Trenton Estate Pinot Noirs typically age well into their second decade. Score: 92-93. Reviewed October 6, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., $65. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of oak-kissed blackberry, warn leather, raisin and grilled brisket. Noticeably silky on entry with layers of earthbound blackberry, black currant, and prune flavors in a middleweight plus style. The tannins have receded and only slightly grippy, while the fruit still shows some presence Showing its age but still enjoyable with a very generous blackberry-fueled finish. Score: 90. Reviewed August 22, 2021 ARTICLE »
2010 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $29. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Slit reduction upon opening. Aromas of black cherry, oak cask, black tea leaf and stem with more fruit showing up over time. Juicy flavors of black cherries and dark berries that go down easy. A little earthy with a hint of citrus in the background. The flavor picks up intensity and interest over time in the glass. Good. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 310 cases, $55. · Medium reddish-purple hue in the glass. Aromas of dark cherries, wooded forest and rose petals. Slightly lighter in this vintage but very flavorful featuring moderately full-bodied black cherry and plum fruits with signature spice. Restrained but evident tannins, a polished texture, and an exemplary finish. A little heat peaks out at the back end. Very good. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »
2009 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 287 cases, $55. 40th anniversary of Joseph Swan Vineyards and the 30th anniversary of Rod Berglund’s first year of making wine. Aged in 66% new French oak. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. The most expressive nose in the lineup showing vibrant aromas of black cherries, dark plums, mushroom, cardamom spice and a hint of vanilla. Delicious earth-kissed core of dark cherries, raspberries and plums. Rich and full-bodied, with balanced tannins and acidity making the wine quite approachable now. Great the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Could drink now because the tannins are not aggressive, but best to hold for at least another five years. Tasted a couple of months ago, but I held the review for this feature. A 2013 All-American for sure. Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2008 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 137 cases, $48. A challenging vintage. A spring frost led to a loss of one-third of the crop. Aged in nearly 75% new French oak. · Moderately dark reddish-purple hue in the glass. Fresh aromas of dark cherries, prune, allspice, sandalwood and forest floor. The cherry core is buried in aggressive tannins with oak evident on the very dry, astringent finish. Relatively dilute compared to other vintages. A little better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. My least favorite of this vertical, but still a solid wine. Hold or drink. Good. Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2007 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 1,900 cases, $28. · Moderately deep reddish-purple robe. Great nose that draws you in featuring aromas of Bing cherries, red raspberries, slightest oak and violets, and a big dose of Asian Five Spice. Demure red berry and dried cherry core with an appealing touch of earth and oak. Silky smooth and elegant with the right mix of t n ‘a to bring the fruit into focus. Not a heavyweight, and even a little shallow in the mid-palate, but satisfying. The moderate alcohol adds to the appeal. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 434 cases, $47. Large crop, yet yields still less than 2.5 tons per acre. · Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Vibrant aromas of black cherries, spice and marzipan. Rich, fleshy and lush, with flavors of fresh, juicy black cherries and cola with an earthy undercurrent. Strikingly intense, yet has the structure and acidity to match. Tasted the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the tannins had softened, the nose offered intense dark chocolate notes, and the wine was simply great. Hold or decant if drink now. Very good (+). Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2006 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 268 cases. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Rather shy bouquet, offering scents of blacker fruits, marzipan, old shoe and brewed tea. On the ripe side with an array of flavors including black cherries, prune, cola, forest floor and spice. Showing some fruit age, yet retaining young tannins. Good acid spine and some length on the fruit-driven finish. Tasted the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine’s sappy fruit veered to the overripe side with a note of sassafras. Hold or drink. Good (+). Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2006 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., 1,100 cases, $25.50. This wine is a blend of several lots including wine from Trenton Estate and Saralee’s Vineyard in the Russian River Valley. It is meant to be an every day wine and is quite popular on restaurant wine lists. It is not as complex as the Swan vineyard designates. · Fairly light in color. Confected cherry, red licorice, oak, spice and sage scents which build in intensity over time in the glass. Tart red cherry and cranberry fruit with a subtle earthy and wild herbal influence. Soft and light with a cleansing finish. An excellent food wine. Reviewed July 19, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 235 cases. · Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, dried roses, and carnations (slight volatile acidity). Plush and saucy black cherry and blackberry fruits with an earthy undertone. Well-structured, with bright acidity, a soft mouth feel, and a refreshing finish. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was still churning out fruit-laden aromas and flavors. Hold or drink. Very good. Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2005 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., $47. · Deep, dark ruby color. Terrific rich aromas of black cherry, carnations, and dried roses. Plush black cherry and blackberry fruit that is a bit dusty and herb-tinged. Plenty of joyous fruit, but not jammy or flabby. Good acidity, velvety texture, with some tannin to lose. Thoroughly distinctive and enjoyable. This will only get better with more time in the bottle. One of my All-Americans this year for sure. Reviewed July 19, 2008 ARTICLE »
2004 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 327 cases. · Dark black-red color in the glass. Still vigorous with flavor and character, offering a ripe palate of black cherry fruit accented with spice, cola and earth. Well-balanced tannins with a velvety texture and a smooth, fulfilling finish. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was still vibrant. Many years ahead. Hold or drink. Very good. Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2004 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvee da Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $23. · This Pinot is a real charmer with terrific aromatics of raspberry, tea, and spices. It is a wine of finesse and is light on its feet. No alcohol or tannin onslaught here. You just won’t find a better Pinot Noir for this price anywhere. Reviewed April 30, 2007 ARTICLE »
2003 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc.. · Moderate dark reddish-purple hue in the glass. Throwing sediment. Aromas of seasoned oak, leather, wilted flowers, and nail polish remover (volatile acidity). Rich and saucy flavors of sweet red cherries and berries with a hint of spice. Clean and fresh with impressive intensity on the long finish. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the volatile acidity had largely subsided. Hold or drink. Very good. Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2003 Joseph Swan Vineyards Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $23. This is the most popular wine in the winery’s lineup and sells out quickly after release each year. The first year of production was only 100 cases, but this has gradually been ramped up to 1,100 cases. It is a blend of lots including grapes from the young vines of the estate Trenton Vineyard and other vineyards including Saralee’s Vineyard. It is meant to be an easy drinking Pinot from the time of release and is not as complex as the vineyard designates. · What a nice surprise! Very lovely berry, raspberry tea and spice aromas and flavors. The aromatics are flat-out terrific. Not at all overblown, no alcohol or tannins to spoil the party. Very good acid kick at the end. If you like Pinot Noir, this is your cup of tea. Reviewed February 26, 2007 ARTICLE »
2002 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 383 cases. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Lovely bouquet of red cherries, beef, musk, old book and oak. Soft in the mouth with supple tannins, offering flavors of red cherries and berries with an earthy undertone. An elegant and relatively delicate wine showing its age. Fine the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, although the finish brings a little heat. Drink or hold short term. Very good. Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »
2002 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $40. · Terrific aromatics with a little spicy cherry, cola and toast. Nicely-weighted pure, sweet fruit with a gentle oaky edge and a lively finish uplifted by bright acidity. This wine is not a voluptuous wine in the full-throttle California sense, but it is thorough satisfying and really what Pinot should be but so often falls short. Not surprisingly, it is a winner with food. Reviewed February 26, 2007 ARTICLE »
2001 Joseph Swan Vineyards Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc.. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, spice, forest floor and old book. Impressive retention of fruit intensity offering tasty notes of dark cherries, dark raspberries, cola, seasoned oak and a hint of white pepper. Soft in the mouth with some length on the slightly astringent finish. Fine the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Drink or hold. Very good. Reviewed January 19, 2013 ARTICLE »