Dec 30, 2022
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Woodenhead
| Owner(s) | Zina Bower, Nikolai Stez |
| Web site | www.woodenheadwine.com |
| Link to this site |
My reverence for Burt Williams and Ed Selyem have led me to many spin offs such as WesMar, Brogan Cellars and Papapietro Perry, wineries that have achieved distinction with Pinot Noir on their own. Nikolai Stez owes his inspiration to Williams Selyem as well. He worked 17 harvests at Williams Selyem, and as an assistant winemaker for Burt Williams, learned from the master.
Growing up on the Russian River, Nikolai was drawn to wine at an early age and began some home winemaking while still in college. His formal winemaking education consisted of attending the Horticulture and Viticulture program at Santa Rosa Junior College and attending a few classes at UC Davis. He began to seriously make garage wines in 1986 while being mentored at Williams Selyem. With the sale of Williams Selyem Winery in 1997, he moved on and started his own label, Woodenhead. His domestic partner, Zina Bower, is equally passionate about wine, and is involved as well, handling the marketing and business side of Woodenhead. She also has a day job as business manager at Diamond Creek Vineyards in Napa Valley.
The name, "Woodenhead," was a name given to Nicolai by an old girlfriend who thought that he was very stubborn (which he is) and the name stuck.
Winemaking here is “Burgundian done in the California style.” There is no pumping, hand punch downs are employed, a gentle basket press is used, and aging is in French oak. Through his years of contacts in the Russian River Valley, Nikolai has been able to source fruit from some outstanding Pinot Noir vineyards. When you look back on the early success of Williams Selyem, one key that stands out was the quality of the vineyards from which the wines were made. You simply can’t make great wine unless you have exceptional grapes. The Woodenhead wines I tasted recently are proof of that tenant.
Vineyard-designate Pinot Noirs are crafted from Buena Tierra Vineyard in the Russian River Valley, Wiley Vineyard and Morning Dew Ranch Vineyard, both in the Anderson Valley, and Fruitland Ranch Vineyard in Humboldt County. His Russian River Valley appellation blend is one of the best examples made of the genre.
Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir won the 2010 Pinot Cup as well as first place in the Pinot Smackdown in 2009 at Charlie Palmer's Pigs & Pinot event in Healdsburg.
The wines are sold through a mailing list, on the website, and through retail channels. Production of Pinot Noir and Zinfandel is about 3,500 cases per year. A tasting room in a converted home is open at 5700 River Road in Santa Rosa. The tasting room is adorned with woodenhead art pieces from around the world and a gorgeous jatoba and maple tasting bar. A deck provides spectacular views. 707-887-2703.
Articles About Woodenhead
2014 California Pinot Noir Second Team All-Americans (10.2 12/22/2014)
Along the Pinot Trail in California (8.45 11/1/2011)
Anderson Noir Valley Pinot (Pt II) (7.19 6/5/2009)
Anderson Noir Valley Pinot Festival: After the Smoke Clears (8.16 6/8/2010)
Buena Tierra Vineyard (7.3 10/1/2008)
California Old Vine Pinot Noir Vineyards: Sonoma/Napa Counties - R-W (12.8 8/30/2020)
Elite California Pinot Noir Vineyards Part II: North Coast - Russian River Valley (12.21 8/22/2021)
Elk Prairie Vineyard: Native American Pinot (6.25 5/7/2007)
Latest Gems from the Russian River Valley (9.20 2/26/2013)
More Sips of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir (9.44 7/28/2014)
Morning Dew Ranch: A New Beginning in the Anderson Valley (12.1 12/16/2019)
On The Pinot Trail: Pigs & Pinot (8.13 4/8/2010)
Pinot Noir Shootout Favorites (6.13 1/22/2007)
Pinot Noirs from Producers Outside the Anderson Valley that Source Grapes from within the Anderson Valley (6.60 6/9/2008)
Reach for the Middle for Pinot Noir (8.26 11/24/2010)
Recent Sips of California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay (9.45 8/15/2014)
Russian River Valley Neighborhoods (9.45 8/15/2014)
Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir (10.15 8/18/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted Wines (9.46 8/25/2014)
Small Sips of Pinot (8.16 6/8/2010)
Tasting of Anderson Valley Pinot Noirs (6.28 6/3/2007)
Tasting of Morning Dew Ranch Pinot Noirs (12.1 12/16/2019)
WesMar: A Lasting Vestige of the Original Williams Selyem Winery (11.42 4/14/2019)
Woodenhead (6.6 11/27/2006)
Woodenhead Vintners (12.33 12/4/2022)
Woodenhead: Real Wines Made with Dinosaur Methodology (9.26 6/23/2013)
Reviewed Wines
2020 Woodenhead Starbridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.51, TA 0.66, 161
cases, $66. Since 2010, Summa Vineyard, located on the extreme West Sonoma Coast, and a source for
Williams Selyem Pinot Noir in the late 1980s and early 1990s, was sold to Thomas Rivers Brown and the
grapes are used for Brown’s Rivers-Marie label. Scott and Joan Zeller, who own a property adjacent to the
original plantings at Summa Vineyard, planted the 2-acre Starbridge Vineyard in 2000 using vine grafts for the
original vines at adjacent Summa Vineyard. The clones are unknown and Zeller refers to them as the “Summa
clones.” In 2020, the Starbridge Vineyard grapes did not suffer smoke taint from the wildfires. Bottled unfined
and unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Reserved but appealing aromas of purple grape, incense,
forest path, and muddy earth. The dark red cherry fruit core is framed by savory notes of herbs and tobacco.
Silky in texture, with very gracious tannins, redeeming acidity, and a persistent finish.
Score: 92.
Reviewed December 3, 2022
ARTICLE »
2019 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Martini Clone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., pH 3.57,
TA 0.67, 158 cases, $56. The vines are 47 years old and Woodenhead has been purchasing Pinot Noir from
Kent Ritchie since 2010. There are several Pinot Noir blocks in the Ritchie Vineyard: the Cinder Cone is Martini
and Pommard clones, another bock is exclusively Swan clone and adjacent is a block solely planted to Martini
clone. Most recently, Nikolai has sourced the Martini clone block for its superiority. Often the grapes are
blended into the winery’s Russian River Valley bottling or the popular Wet Kiss Pinot Noir but in 2019 the
grapes were exceptional. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Very engaging
aromas of purple and black berry fruits with a floral accent. Discretely rich in a mid-weight style, with earth-
kissed blackberry and black currant fruit flavors. The tannins are well-proportioned and there is admirable
length on the dry finish. This wine reflects the typical expression of the Martini clone.
Score: 93.
Reviewed December 3, 2022
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2017 Woodenhead Buena Terra Vineyard E Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.653, 154
cases, $70. Gold Medal at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair
and California State Fair in 2022. Vines planted in 1994.
Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the
glass. Quintessential Russian River Valley Pinot Noir nose
offering enticing aromas of Bing cherry, BBQ spice rub, cola,
and earthy flora. Bright black cherry, spice, cola, and matcha
tea flavors are shadowed with toasty oak. This beauty is
expansive through the mid-palate and finish and an inviting cut
of acidity brightens the finish.
Score: 94.
Reviewed December 3, 2022
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2017 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard “Cinder Cone” Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc.,
pH 3.42, TA 0.646, 116 cases, $70. Cinder Block contains both Martini 58 and Pommard 5 clones. There is a
total of 910 vines planted in 1972., making it one of the oldest plantings of Pinot Noir in the North Coast. The
unique soil consists of two feet of Goldridge loam on top of volcanic cinder cone material. Bottled unfined and
unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of black cherry, potpourri, red
licorice and a hint of oak. Mid-weight in style, with the striking essence of black cherry and black raspberry fruit
that saturates the mid-palate and carries through a remarkably lengthy finish. A thread of oak and earthiness
adds interest. Outstanding balance.
Score: 94.
Reviewed December 3, 2022
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2016 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard “Cinder Cone” Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc.,
$N/A. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. A complex nose offers aromas
of black cherry, cocoa, Herbs de Provence, warn leather and toasty oak. On the palate, the wine is taking on an
aged, tertiary character. Cherry-driven, with notes of cola and smoke backed by bright acidity. The fruit intensity
is modest allowing both tannin and acidity to stick out a small amount.
Score: 90.
Reviewed December 3, 2022
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2015 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $65.
·
Dark
garnet color in the glass. Leading off are enticing scents of
dark cherry and berry and forest floor. Full-bodied in style,
with a reaching, expansive core of spiced black cherry fruit
that keeps opening and opening in the glass. Richly
endowed with fruit sap yet endlessly gentle. Ready now for
prime time with ripe, gracious tannins and a very long
finish brimming with fruit goodness.
Score: 95.
Reviewed August 27, 2020
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2015 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $65.
·
Dark
garnet in color in the glass. Leading off are enticing scents of dark cherry and berry, and forest floor. Fullbodied
in style, with a reaching, expansive core of spiced black cherry fruit that keeps opening in the glass.
Richly endowed with fruit sap yet endlessly gentle. Ready now for prime time with ripe, gracious tannins and a
very long finish brimming with fruit goodness. Reviewed August 27, 2020.
Score: 95.
Reviewed August 22, 2021
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2014 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc.,
$65.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. A Pinot nose to die for, with the perfume of black cherry, spice and
rose petal. Nothing is out of place in this mid-weight plus styled beauty offering layers of gregarious
dark cherry and purple berry fruits that caress the palate with silkiness. Impeccable harmony and a
lengthy finish that provides a juicy citric edge. This wine tastes damn good just like mothers milk.
Score: 95.
Reviewed August 27, 2020
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2014 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., $65.
·
Dark
garnet color in the glass. A Pinot Noir nose to die for, with the glorious perfume of black cherry, spice and rose
petal. Nothing is out of place in this mid-weight plus styled beauty offering layers of gregarious dark cherry and
purple berry fruit flavors that caress the palate with silkiness. Impeccable harmony and a lengthy finish that
provides a juicy, citric edge. This wine simply tastes damn good. Reviewed August 27, 2020.
Score: 95.
Reviewed August 22, 2021
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2013 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc..
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. Intoxicating aromas of black cherry, spice cabinet, floral goodness and
seasoned oak. Sleek and comforting in the mouth with reserved tannins and a juicy acid undertone.
The mid-weight plus flavors of black cherry, strawberry and cola impress as does the lengthy, sweet
cherry finish.
Score: 94.
Reviewed August 27, 2020
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2012 Woodenhead Kent Berry Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $N/A.
·
Moderately
light crimson color in the glass. The nose leads with aromas of red cherry, strawberry and oak spice. Light to
mid weight flavors of red cherry, blueberry and pomegranate are propelled by bright acidity and framed by fine
grain tannins. Easy to drink but with a bit of alcoholic heat on the finish.
Score: 88.
Reviewed August 18, 2015
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2012 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc..
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of black cherry, dried brush, cardamom
spice and dried rose petal. The flavors of well-ripened black cherry and blackberry come together in a
mid-weight plus style that benefits from gracious tannins and subtle oak. Easy to like, with excellent
harmony and an exuberantly fruity finish.
Score: 93.
Reviewed August 27, 2020
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2012 Woodenhead Wes Cameron Ranch “Halfshell White” Russian River Valley French Colombard
11.6% alc., 245 cases, $22. French Colombard was once widely planted in the Russian River Valley, but very
little acreage remains.
·
Pale golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Lively aromas of lemon pie, crème
brûlée, banana and tropical fruits including mango hold up nicely over time in the glass. Light weight flavors of
tropical citrus, lemon and grapefruit drive this refreshing wine, which is crisp and slightly tart due to hi-strung
acidity. A little hollow in the mid palate, but overall a pleasant wine that would be an excellent accompaniment
for shellfish.
Score: 88.
Reviewed August 15, 2014
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2012 Woodenhead Dolinsek Ranch Russian River Valley Syrah
15.0% alc., 75 cases, $40. I don’t review many Syrahs but two very
good ones showed up in this issue.
·
Dark, dense purple color in the
glass. Explosive aromas arrive over time including blackberries,
boysenberries, spice, smoke and vanilla. Plush, velvety and fruity on the
palate with a delicious sap load of purple berries accented with spice.
Full-bodied and hedonistic, but balanced, with complimentary oak in the
background and a smash mouth finish of great intensity.
Score: 93.
Reviewed August 25, 2014
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2012 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., 538 cases, $45. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderate light crimson color in the glass. Gorgeous nose with extravagant aromas of crush Bing cherries.
Quintessential Russian River Valley flavor profile with mid weight tastes of Bing cherry, cola and spice. On the
elegant side in this vintage, with good vibrancy, balanced soft tannins and complimentary oak in the
background. Ready now, but impeccable balance predicts a long life ahead.
Score: 91.
Reviewed August 18, 2015
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2012 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard E Block Clone 115 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 149 cases, $75 (2 bottle
limit).
·
Moderately dark reddish purple hue in the glass. Complex
aromatic profile with scents of black cherry, black raspberry, clove,
cardamom, and toasty oak jumping from the glass. Delicious mid weight
core of black cherry, raspberry, vanilla, and Moroccan spice goodness.
Impressive polish and harmony with a satiny mouthfeel and a very long
finish that returns waves of luscious oak-infused fruit flavor. Still
pumping out aromatic and flavor highlights the following day from a
previously opened and re-corked bottle.
Score: 93.
Reviewed August 18, 2015
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2011 Woodenhead Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., 144 cases, $38. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderate
reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is spicy and smoky with plenty of black cherry and black raspberry
fruit aromas. Very tasty mid weight core of darker stone and berry fruits with a spice overlay. The wine is juicy
and refreshing, with suave tannins and a good cut of underlying acidity. The finish is crisp and satisfying.
Score: 90.
Reviewed August 15, 2014
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2011 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $42. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately
light reddish purple color in the glass. Pleasant aromas of Bing cherry, wood spice and tobacco. A lighter
weight wine that is elegant and forward drinking. Flavors of cherry and blueberry fruits are accented with notes
of herbs and tobacco. Nicely balanced, with an appealing cherry and cranberry fueled finish.
Score: 88.
Reviewed August 15, 2014
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2011 Woodenhead Wet Kiss Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $52. Unfined and unfiltered.
Ritchie Vineyard Martini clone, Cameron Vineyard Martini clone, and River South Vineyard Swan clone.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. A lighter wine with aromas of cherry and oak, and flavors of
cherry, marzipan and brown spice. The tannins are soft and suave, and there is a prominent kick of acid on the
mouthwatering finish. This is one juicy cherry kiss!
Score: 88.
Reviewed August 15, 2014
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2011 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cove Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $65.
·
Medium reddish purple color in the
glass. Aromas of cherry, raspberry and subtle oak lead to a tasty palate
of cherry fruit with a slight floral accent. This middleweight wine has
accommodating finesse, with balanced tannins and some finishing
length.
Score: 89.
Reviewed August 15, 2014
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2010 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc..
·
Dark garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of black cherry, cassis and purple grape
with a compliment of seasoned oak. Mid-weight plus in style, with a bombastic core of black cherry
fruit backed by mild supportive tannins.Silky in the mouth with a moderately long finish. Impressive
fruit presence after ten years and has the balance to drink well for another 5 years at least.
Score: 93.
Reviewed August 27, 2020
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2010 Woodenhead Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
148 cases, $38. Sourced from the Valenti Vineyard. 60%
of bud stock came from Morning Dew Ranch including a Rochioli selection with the remaining 40% clone 115.
First crop from vines budded over to Pinot Noir from Zinfandel.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the
glass. Unfolds slowly in the glass, offering fragrant notes of dark cherries and berries with a hint of oak and
dried rose petals. On the lighter side, but very tasty and highly approachable, with flavors that echo the nose,
finishing with a flourish of black raspberry aromatics. The tannins are dry and fine-grain, the acidity brings the
fruit to life and the whole package is very smooth and dreamy on the palate. Very good (+).
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2010 Woodenhead Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., $38. Sourced from David Bruce’s Kent
Berry Vineyard.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Very shy upon opening, slowly revealing
itself with a slightly roasted fruit profile and notes of earth, briar and old book. Juicy, rustic and rugged with
concentrated flavors of blueberry, black plum and dark cherry with lacy oak in the background. Plenty of
finishing tannin and a little heat shows up on the finish. Should benefit from more time in bottle. Good.
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2010 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 872 cases, $42. Sourced from three
vineyards including Buena Tierra and Ritchie. Five clones. Woodenhead’s go-to-wine for everyday drinking.
·
This wine is true to its Russian River Valley heritage with aromas and flavors of cherries, baking spices and
cola. Soft and easy to drink with supple tannins, this wine works beautifully at the nightly dinner table. Good.
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2010 Woodenhead Wet Kiss Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc.,
397 cases, $52. First release of this wine comprised of 25% Ritchie Vineyard
Martini clone (35 years old), 37.5% Cameron Vineyard Martini clone (30+ years
old) and River South Vineyard Swan clone (3 years old). Retailers have avoided
this wine because of its name which they consider lacks seriousness but this is a
serious wine. It is very popular in the winery tasting room.
·
Medium reddishpurple
color in the glass. Very aromatic featuring hi-tone scents of Bing cherries,
baking spice and a hint of vanilla. Moderately light in weight but flavorful offering
nicely composed notes of juicy dark cherries and berries with a subtle riff of oakdriven
roasted nuts and vanilla, and a finishing thrust of lush cherry reduction
sauce. Forward, soft and easy to cozy up to, with bright acidity adding to its refreshing appeal, this wine will
have crowd appeal. Good (+).
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2010 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.55, 296
cases, $60. 28-year-old vines (Pommard 5 and Romanee-Conti 37). Unfined and unfiltered. This wine
really caught my attention at the Grand Tasting at the Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival.
·
Moderately
dark reddish purple color in the glass. Definitely some pennyroyal on the nose with added scents of
blackberries, tea, and spice. Very dark fruited, this wine is flush with black raspberry, black cherry and
black tea notes that envelope the palate. The dreamy tannins offer a fine-grain texture and the oak hits
all the right notes. This wine has the stuffing to age beautifully, but is very hard to resist now. A magnificent
wine from one of Anderson Valley’s most esteemed vineyards.
Score: 94.
Reviewed July 28, 2014
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2010 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., 124 cases,
$65. 30 to 35-year-old Pommard and Martini vines.
·
Medium reddish-purple hue in the glass. Aromas of
cherry liquor, sassafras, spice and a touch of oak. On lighter side, but with impressive flavor and finishing
intensity, offering tastes of black cherries, black raspberries and subtle oak. The sappy fruit core hits all the
high notes while the balanced tannins keep the fruit in line. I sense this wine will become even more complex
with more time in the bottle. Very good.
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2009 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
173 cases, sold out (look for retail availability).
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Charming in every
way with alluring aromas of cherries, fresh berry jam and rose petals.
Boldly flavored with black cherries and a hint of spice with
complimentary cedar-toned oak treatment. The intense mid palate
attack and brilliant finish reflect a wine of pedigree. The impeccable
balance indicates accomplished winemaking. There is nothing quite like this
wine.
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2009 Woodenhead Méthode Champenoise Russian River Valley Sparkling Wine
212 cases, $46. This is
a rarity: a sparkling wine made from French Colombard grapes. Disgorged March 12, 2012.
·
Pale yellow color
in the glass. The aromas is leesy, with notes of yellow stone fruits and almonds. Very dry with biting acidity,
this citrus driven wine has subtle notes of pear and tropical fruits. Drinks like a very good blanc de blanc
Champagne at half the price.
Score: 89.
Reviewed August 15, 2014
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2009 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc.,
$53. From old vines planted on Eastside Road across the Russian River from Rochioli Vineyard.
·
Moderate
reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of Bing cherries, baking spices and a dusting of
oak. Very soft and seamless in the mouth, with modest, lacy tannins, offering flavors of cherry pie filling and
spice with a hint of sandalwood in the background. Elegant, yet with noticeable finishing power. Very good.
Reviewed February 27, 2013
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2009 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 296 cases, $60. Primarily Pommard clone with a little Mt.
Eden selection.
·
Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. This wine is
in a class by itself. The knockout nose is alive with flavors of fresh,
perfectly ripe berries. Earthy and serious, with discreetly concentrated
flavors of dark red and black berries that have a delicious sappiness that
really sings. Beautifully balanced with well-honed tannins and a very
long and generous finish. Many call this vineyard a California Grand Cru and
that title is well earned.
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2008 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 198 cases, $60. Last vintage for this
vineyard designate as the vineyard is dying out due to phylloxera.
Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the
glass. Brooding aromas of cherries, spice, and oak vanillin. Delicious
fruit bombast featuring perfectly ripe flavors of black cherries and black raspberries, with notes of sassafras, cola
and exotic spices. Very broad in the mouth and distinctive, leaving a lovely
cherry kiss on the lingering finish. Harmonious in every way. I guarantee you will love this wine. An All-
American for sure.
Reviewed November 2, 2011
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2007 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc.. Unfined and
unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Terrific aromatic purity with scents of black cherry, white
pepper, tobacco and seasoned oak. Beautifully balanced in a mid weight style featuring a charge of
fresh, darker red fruits infused with joyous acidity. A 12-year-old wine that is still remarkably fresh.
Reviewed December 17, 2019
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2007 Woodenhead Humboldt County Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., $40.
Unfined and unfiltered.
·
A fruity nose featuring
fresh plums and boysenberries picking up intensity in the glass with oak
dancing in and out along the way. Earth bound dark stone fruits with a
wild quality. Nicely integrated oak with a hint of citric peel in the
background. The tannins are well-structured and supple. Even better the
next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Humboldt County -
who knew?
Reviewed June 8, 2010
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2007 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., $40. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately
light reddish-purple color in the glass. Shy aromas of oak-infused cherry and berry fruits. Tasty cherry and
berry essence with cola and oak in the background. Elegant with soft tannins and easy drinkability. A nice little
wine for daily drinking. Good.
Reviewed June 8, 2010
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2007 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $57. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately light
reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose needs some time to express itself,
offering aromas of black cherries, spice box and herbs. Charming essence of
cherries and sassafras with a good dose of baking spice and juicy fruit flavors.
This wine has a way of drawing you in to its charms. This bottle did not show
quite as well as the one that won the Pinot Cup at this year’s Pigs and Pinot
event in Healdsburg. Very good.
Reviewed June 8, 2010
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2007 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $57. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderate garnet
hue in the glass. On the nose there is a lovely interplay of cherry pie filling,
spice, pencil lead and oak char aromas. This Pinot is a delicious cherry
bombast nicely spiced with crisp and bright fruit lifted by gleeful acidity that
shows up on the finish as a citrus note. Very good.
Reviewed November 24, 2010
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2007 Woodenhead Troika North Coast Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., 75 cases, $70. Three of best barrels, one
each from Buena Tierra, Wiley and Fruitland vineyards. 100% new French oak barrels. The last version of this
wine as two of the vineyard sources are no longer available. Tasted briefly at the winery.
·
Ripe black fruit
profile including blackberry and black currant flavors backed by healthy tannins and underlain with noticeable
oak. The fruit core is concentrated and sappy. Decant if you must open now, but this wine will benefit from
even more time in bottle. Good.
Reviewed June 23, 2013
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2006 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc.. Unfined and
unfiltered. 100% Rochioli selection.
·
Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of earthy flora
and red cherry. A lighter-weighted wine featuring redder fruits and more spirited acidity.
Reviewed December 17, 2019
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2006 Woodenhead Vintners Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Pinot
13.5% alc..
·
A terrific Pinot brimming with spiced red fruits that are caressing
in the mouth. Excellent balance and length with a long, powerfully aromatic
finish. Clearly one of my standouts at the Festival.
Reviewed June 9, 2008
ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Vintners Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., 358 cases, $60.
·
This is as different from the Morning Dew bottling as night and day. A
big, big wine, dark and brooding, loaded with tannin. Impenetrable now. Wiley
Pinots from past vintages have been outstanding indicating patience is required with this one.
Reviewed June 9, 2008
ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.7%
alc., 358 cases, $60. When I tasted this almost a year ago, it was
impenetrable and brooding. It has now opened up.
·
Medium ruby color.
Flashy and expressive aromas of cherries and raspberries. Mouth filling
richness with oodles of raspberry fruit, some Asian spice, and a long,
chewy and aromatic finish. Really lovely wine with deft use of oak and
impeccable balance. Expensive, yes, but worth it if you want the full experience.
Reviewed June 5, 2009
ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., pH
3.46, 358 cases, $60. Released in the fall 2008. 26-year-old vines. Pommard 5
and Romanee-Conti 37 clones. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderately deep reddishpurple
color in the glass. Polished cherry and stylish spice aromas. Delicious
essence of fresh plums and black cherries with an underpinning of oak-driven root
beer flavor with a potpourri of savory herbs. Impressive body and richness with
nicely balanced tannins. Very good.
Reviewed June 8, 2010
ARTICLE »
2005 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc.. Unfined and
unfiltered. 66.6% Rochioli selection and 33.3% clone “828.’
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass.
Enticing aromas of spice, dried leaves and floral bouquet. A full-bodied wine, with a gorgeous core of
Bing cherry fruit, gracious tannins, a trace of oak and a long finish with a good cut of acidity.
Exceptional.
Reviewed December 17, 2019
ARTICLE »
2005 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc.,180 cases, $45. Unfined
and unfiltered.
·
Intoxicating scent of black cherry jam, cola, smoke
and spice cabinet. Bright and fresh black cherries and summer
berries nicely spiced and complimented by hints of loam, mushroom
and citrus. A great expression of Pinot Noir that is seamless in every way
and with lively acidity that will make it a perfect companion at the dinner
table.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.. Unfined and
unfiltered. 21.4% clone 777, 64.2% Rochioli selection (22% added as whole cluster) and 14.2% clone
23.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of forest floor and bruised cherry lead to a mid
weight plus styled wine offering blackberry and cassis flavors with a hint of oak in the background.
Still very much alive, with a juicy finish.
Reviewed December 17, 2019
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Humboldt County Pinot Noir
112 cases, $32. Although Humboldt
County is more well-known for an illegal mood-altering substance, there are several
microclimates here that are ideal for Pinot Noir. One other producer from this region
that stands out is Whitethorn.
·
Reviewed November 27, 2006
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 273 cases, $36. This wine is a
combination of several vineyards, including Buena Tierra.
·
This medium-bodied Pinot has restrained but
promising aromas of cherry, wet earth and Christmas spice. Burgundy-oriented pinotphiles, would be
attracted to this understated wine which displays subtle flavors of cherry, clove, spice and oak with a generous
acid backbone and dusty tannins on the finish.
Reviewed November 27, 2006
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Vintners Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
15% alc., $45.
·
The subdued
dark red fruits and subtle oak overtones in the nose are overshadowed by cinnamon-infused cherry,
cola and baking spices on the palate. Despite the high alcohol, the fruit holds its own, and the whole
package very enjoyable. This one grows in your mouth until you are smiling from ear to ear.
Reviewed June 3, 2007
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 193 cases, $46. This 26-year-old vineyard is “the bomb.”
·
This Pinot is the closest of the
three to the early Williams Selyem style and is flat-out terrific. It is light in color and elegant in style. The
nose-grabbing aromatics feature cherry pie and Asian spices with a hint of alcohol. The mouth feel is
luxurious and the lingering finish leaves dreamy memories of spiced cherries which last until the next sip.
Beautifully balanced. You will need a cold soak after drinking this one.
Reviewed November 27, 2006
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
166 cases, $46. This producer
was featured recently in the PinotFile. Nikolai Stez spent 17 years working crushes at Williams
Selyem. He now crafts small production, artisan Pinot Noirs of great interest. Woodenhead wines may be purchased on the website.
·
The wine has a pure red
fruit nose of great elegance. Very lush in the mouth with plenty of spice and vim. More fruity than complex,
with plenty of power to thrill. A Lolita.
Reviewed January 22, 2007
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 166
cases, $46. After selling Williams Selyem and retiring, Burt Williams planted his own vineyard in the
Anderson Valley. He is prevented from making wine himself because of a non-compete agreement,
but probably prefers not too, simply relishing in nurturing a young vineyard to excellence. Two other
producers are allocated grapes from Morning Dew Ranch - Whitcraft in Santa Barbara County and Brogan
Cellars in Healdsburg.
·
This is a prodigious wine that is as dark as Pinot gets. With coaxing, a rich
nose of dark fruits, brown spice and pepper emerges. The wine is dense and chewy on the palate with
oak and earth notes preempting the fruit. The finish is mildly tannic with lively acidity. It is very tight and
concentrated at this point and I recommend decanting, or preferably, cellaring for a period.
Reviewed November 27, 2006
ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
305 cases, $46. The
Pinot Noir grapes for this wine come from 24-year-old vines, Pommard (5) and Martin
Ray (37). It is one of the Anderson Valley’s heritage vineyards, the fourth planted after
Edmeades, Husch and Van Hoorn. This vineyard is the closest to the ocean of any valley
floor vineyard resulting in a very long growing season.
·
Reviewed November 27, 2006
ARTICLE »
2003 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., 86 cases, $45.
Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Smoky black cherries, cola and mocha carry this smooth and nicely weighted wine.
The flavors fan out nicely on the palate and the finish has a lively tangerine peel tang. Still plenty of life ahead.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2002 Woodenhead Elk Prairie Vineyard Humboldt County Pinot Noir
14.1% alc. Woodenhead is a small artisanal producer of Pinot Noir and Zinfandel sourced primarily from vineyards
in the Russian River Valley and Anderson Valley. The owner and winemaker is Nikolai Stez. The
phone is 707-887-2703. The wines are offered on the website at www.woodenheadwine.com.
·
The aromas trump
the flavors here. The perfume of deep, dark cherries and spicy oak draw you in. Blackberry and black
cherry compose the flavor profile accented with a char note. A touch of phenolic bitterness mars the finish.
Reviewed May 7, 2007
ARTICLE »
2002 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc.,
120 cases, $45. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Rich and sensual aromas of black cherries, exotic spices, and smoke
with a hint of raisin. Complex and compelling flavor profile of dark stone fruits and berries, almonds, mocha
and earth. Supple and refined with angel hair tannins and a refreshingly tangy finish. A very seductive drink
that is showing some aged patina.
Reviewed October 1, 2008
ARTICLE »
2020 Woodenhead Starbridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., pH 3.51, TA 0.66, 161 cases, $66. Since 2010, Summa Vineyard, located on the extreme West Sonoma Coast, and a source for Williams Selyem Pinot Noir in the late 1980s and early 1990s, was sold to Thomas Rivers Brown and the grapes are used for Brown’s Rivers-Marie label. Scott and Joan Zeller, who own a property adjacent to the original plantings at Summa Vineyard, planted the 2-acre Starbridge Vineyard in 2000 using vine grafts for the original vines at adjacent Summa Vineyard. The clones are unknown and Zeller refers to them as the “Summa clones.” In 2020, the Starbridge Vineyard grapes did not suffer smoke taint from the wildfires. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Reserved but appealing aromas of purple grape, incense, forest path, and muddy earth. The dark red cherry fruit core is framed by savory notes of herbs and tobacco. Silky in texture, with very gracious tannins, redeeming acidity, and a persistent finish. Score: 92. Reviewed December 3, 2022 ARTICLE »
2019 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Martini Clone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.67, 158 cases, $56. The vines are 47 years old and Woodenhead has been purchasing Pinot Noir from Kent Ritchie since 2010. There are several Pinot Noir blocks in the Ritchie Vineyard: the Cinder Cone is Martini and Pommard clones, another bock is exclusively Swan clone and adjacent is a block solely planted to Martini clone. Most recently, Nikolai has sourced the Martini clone block for its superiority. Often the grapes are blended into the winery’s Russian River Valley bottling or the popular Wet Kiss Pinot Noir but in 2019 the grapes were exceptional. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Very engaging aromas of purple and black berry fruits with a floral accent. Discretely rich in a mid-weight style, with earth- kissed blackberry and black currant fruit flavors. The tannins are well-proportioned and there is admirable length on the dry finish. This wine reflects the typical expression of the Martini clone. Score: 93. Reviewed December 3, 2022 ARTICLE »
2017 Woodenhead Buena Terra Vineyard E Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.653, 154 cases, $70. Gold Medal at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair and California State Fair in 2022. Vines planted in 1994. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Quintessential Russian River Valley Pinot Noir nose offering enticing aromas of Bing cherry, BBQ spice rub, cola, and earthy flora. Bright black cherry, spice, cola, and matcha tea flavors are shadowed with toasty oak. This beauty is expansive through the mid-palate and finish and an inviting cut of acidity brightens the finish. Score: 94. Reviewed December 3, 2022 ARTICLE »
2017 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard “Cinder Cone” Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., pH 3.42, TA 0.646, 116 cases, $70. Cinder Block contains both Martini 58 and Pommard 5 clones. There is a total of 910 vines planted in 1972., making it one of the oldest plantings of Pinot Noir in the North Coast. The unique soil consists of two feet of Goldridge loam on top of volcanic cinder cone material. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of black cherry, potpourri, red licorice and a hint of oak. Mid-weight in style, with the striking essence of black cherry and black raspberry fruit that saturates the mid-palate and carries through a remarkably lengthy finish. A thread of oak and earthiness adds interest. Outstanding balance. Score: 94. Reviewed December 3, 2022 ARTICLE »
2016 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard “Cinder Cone” Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., $N/A. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. A complex nose offers aromas of black cherry, cocoa, Herbs de Provence, warn leather and toasty oak. On the palate, the wine is taking on an aged, tertiary character. Cherry-driven, with notes of cola and smoke backed by bright acidity. The fruit intensity is modest allowing both tannin and acidity to stick out a small amount. Score: 90. Reviewed December 3, 2022 ARTICLE »
2015 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $65. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Leading off are enticing scents of dark cherry and berry and forest floor. Full-bodied in style, with a reaching, expansive core of spiced black cherry fruit that keeps opening and opening in the glass. Richly endowed with fruit sap yet endlessly gentle. Ready now for prime time with ripe, gracious tannins and a very long finish brimming with fruit goodness. Score: 95. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »
2015 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $65. · Dark garnet in color in the glass. Leading off are enticing scents of dark cherry and berry, and forest floor. Fullbodied in style, with a reaching, expansive core of spiced black cherry fruit that keeps opening in the glass. Richly endowed with fruit sap yet endlessly gentle. Ready now for prime time with ripe, gracious tannins and a very long finish brimming with fruit goodness. Reviewed August 27, 2020. Score: 95. Reviewed August 22, 2021 ARTICLE »
2014 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., $65. · Dark garnet color in the glass. A Pinot nose to die for, with the perfume of black cherry, spice and rose petal. Nothing is out of place in this mid-weight plus styled beauty offering layers of gregarious dark cherry and purple berry fruits that caress the palate with silkiness. Impeccable harmony and a lengthy finish that provides a juicy citric edge. This wine tastes damn good just like mothers milk. Score: 95. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »
2014 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc., $65. · Dark garnet color in the glass. A Pinot Noir nose to die for, with the glorious perfume of black cherry, spice and rose petal. Nothing is out of place in this mid-weight plus styled beauty offering layers of gregarious dark cherry and purple berry fruit flavors that caress the palate with silkiness. Impeccable harmony and a lengthy finish that provides a juicy, citric edge. This wine simply tastes damn good. Reviewed August 27, 2020. Score: 95. Reviewed August 22, 2021 ARTICLE »
2013 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.0% alc.. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Intoxicating aromas of black cherry, spice cabinet, floral goodness and seasoned oak. Sleek and comforting in the mouth with reserved tannins and a juicy acid undertone. The mid-weight plus flavors of black cherry, strawberry and cola impress as does the lengthy, sweet cherry finish. Score: 94. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »
2012 Woodenhead Kent Berry Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., $N/A. · Moderately light crimson color in the glass. The nose leads with aromas of red cherry, strawberry and oak spice. Light to mid weight flavors of red cherry, blueberry and pomegranate are propelled by bright acidity and framed by fine grain tannins. Easy to drink but with a bit of alcoholic heat on the finish. Score: 88. Reviewed August 18, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc.. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of black cherry, dried brush, cardamom spice and dried rose petal. The flavors of well-ripened black cherry and blackberry come together in a mid-weight plus style that benefits from gracious tannins and subtle oak. Easy to like, with excellent harmony and an exuberantly fruity finish. Score: 93. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »
2012 Woodenhead Wes Cameron Ranch “Halfshell White” Russian River Valley French Colombard
11.6% alc., 245 cases, $22. French Colombard was once widely planted in the Russian River Valley, but very little acreage remains. · Pale golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Lively aromas of lemon pie, crème brûlée, banana and tropical fruits including mango hold up nicely over time in the glass. Light weight flavors of tropical citrus, lemon and grapefruit drive this refreshing wine, which is crisp and slightly tart due to hi-strung acidity. A little hollow in the mid palate, but overall a pleasant wine that would be an excellent accompaniment for shellfish. Score: 88. Reviewed August 15, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Woodenhead Dolinsek Ranch Russian River Valley Syrah
15.0% alc., 75 cases, $40. I don’t review many Syrahs but two very good ones showed up in this issue. · Dark, dense purple color in the glass. Explosive aromas arrive over time including blackberries, boysenberries, spice, smoke and vanilla. Plush, velvety and fruity on the palate with a delicious sap load of purple berries accented with spice. Full-bodied and hedonistic, but balanced, with complimentary oak in the background and a smash mouth finish of great intensity. Score: 93. Reviewed August 25, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., 538 cases, $45. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate light crimson color in the glass. Gorgeous nose with extravagant aromas of crush Bing cherries. Quintessential Russian River Valley flavor profile with mid weight tastes of Bing cherry, cola and spice. On the elegant side in this vintage, with good vibrancy, balanced soft tannins and complimentary oak in the background. Ready now, but impeccable balance predicts a long life ahead. Score: 91. Reviewed August 18, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard E Block Clone 115 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 149 cases, $75 (2 bottle limit). · Moderately dark reddish purple hue in the glass. Complex aromatic profile with scents of black cherry, black raspberry, clove, cardamom, and toasty oak jumping from the glass. Delicious mid weight core of black cherry, raspberry, vanilla, and Moroccan spice goodness. Impressive polish and harmony with a satiny mouthfeel and a very long finish that returns waves of luscious oak-infused fruit flavor. Still pumping out aromatic and flavor highlights the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed August 18, 2015 ARTICLE »
2011 Woodenhead Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., 144 cases, $38. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is spicy and smoky with plenty of black cherry and black raspberry fruit aromas. Very tasty mid weight core of darker stone and berry fruits with a spice overlay. The wine is juicy and refreshing, with suave tannins and a good cut of underlying acidity. The finish is crisp and satisfying. Score: 90. Reviewed August 15, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $42. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Pleasant aromas of Bing cherry, wood spice and tobacco. A lighter weight wine that is elegant and forward drinking. Flavors of cherry and blueberry fruits are accented with notes of herbs and tobacco. Nicely balanced, with an appealing cherry and cranberry fueled finish. Score: 88. Reviewed August 15, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Woodenhead Wet Kiss Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $52. Unfined and unfiltered. Ritchie Vineyard Martini clone, Cameron Vineyard Martini clone, and River South Vineyard Swan clone. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. A lighter wine with aromas of cherry and oak, and flavors of cherry, marzipan and brown spice. The tannins are soft and suave, and there is a prominent kick of acid on the mouthwatering finish. This is one juicy cherry kiss! Score: 88. Reviewed August 15, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cove Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $65. · Medium reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, raspberry and subtle oak lead to a tasty palate of cherry fruit with a slight floral accent. This middleweight wine has accommodating finesse, with balanced tannins and some finishing length. Score: 89. Reviewed August 15, 2014 ARTICLE »
2010 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc.. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of black cherry, cassis and purple grape with a compliment of seasoned oak. Mid-weight plus in style, with a bombastic core of black cherry fruit backed by mild supportive tannins.Silky in the mouth with a moderately long finish. Impressive fruit presence after ten years and has the balance to drink well for another 5 years at least. Score: 93. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »
2010 Woodenhead Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir
148 cases, $38. Sourced from the Valenti Vineyard. 60% of bud stock came from Morning Dew Ranch including a Rochioli selection with the remaining 40% clone 115. First crop from vines budded over to Pinot Noir from Zinfandel. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Unfolds slowly in the glass, offering fragrant notes of dark cherries and berries with a hint of oak and dried rose petals. On the lighter side, but very tasty and highly approachable, with flavors that echo the nose, finishing with a flourish of black raspberry aromatics. The tannins are dry and fine-grain, the acidity brings the fruit to life and the whole package is very smooth and dreamy on the palate. Very good (+). Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 Woodenhead Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., $38. Sourced from David Bruce’s Kent Berry Vineyard. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Very shy upon opening, slowly revealing itself with a slightly roasted fruit profile and notes of earth, briar and old book. Juicy, rustic and rugged with concentrated flavors of blueberry, black plum and dark cherry with lacy oak in the background. Plenty of finishing tannin and a little heat shows up on the finish. Should benefit from more time in bottle. Good. Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 872 cases, $42. Sourced from three vineyards including Buena Tierra and Ritchie. Five clones. Woodenhead’s go-to-wine for everyday drinking. · This wine is true to its Russian River Valley heritage with aromas and flavors of cherries, baking spices and cola. Soft and easy to drink with supple tannins, this wine works beautifully at the nightly dinner table. Good. Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 Woodenhead Wet Kiss Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., 397 cases, $52. First release of this wine comprised of 25% Ritchie Vineyard Martini clone (35 years old), 37.5% Cameron Vineyard Martini clone (30+ years old) and River South Vineyard Swan clone (3 years old). Retailers have avoided this wine because of its name which they consider lacks seriousness but this is a serious wine. It is very popular in the winery tasting room. · Medium reddishpurple color in the glass. Very aromatic featuring hi-tone scents of Bing cherries, baking spice and a hint of vanilla. Moderately light in weight but flavorful offering nicely composed notes of juicy dark cherries and berries with a subtle riff of oakdriven roasted nuts and vanilla, and a finishing thrust of lush cherry reduction sauce. Forward, soft and easy to cozy up to, with bright acidity adding to its refreshing appeal, this wine will have crowd appeal. Good (+). Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.55, 296 cases, $60. 28-year-old vines (Pommard 5 and Romanee-Conti 37). Unfined and unfiltered. This wine really caught my attention at the Grand Tasting at the Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Definitely some pennyroyal on the nose with added scents of blackberries, tea, and spice. Very dark fruited, this wine is flush with black raspberry, black cherry and black tea notes that envelope the palate. The dreamy tannins offer a fine-grain texture and the oak hits all the right notes. This wine has the stuffing to age beautifully, but is very hard to resist now. A magnificent wine from one of Anderson Valley’s most esteemed vineyards. Score: 94. Reviewed July 28, 2014 ARTICLE »
2010 Woodenhead Ritchie Vineyard Cinder Cone Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., 124 cases, $65. 30 to 35-year-old Pommard and Martini vines. · Medium reddish-purple hue in the glass. Aromas of cherry liquor, sassafras, spice and a touch of oak. On lighter side, but with impressive flavor and finishing intensity, offering tastes of black cherries, black raspberries and subtle oak. The sappy fruit core hits all the high notes while the balanced tannins keep the fruit in line. I sense this wine will become even more complex with more time in the bottle. Very good. Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2009 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
173 cases, sold out (look for retail availability). · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Charming in every way with alluring aromas of cherries, fresh berry jam and rose petals. Boldly flavored with black cherries and a hint of spice with complimentary cedar-toned oak treatment. The intense mid palate attack and brilliant finish reflect a wine of pedigree. The impeccable balance indicates accomplished winemaking. There is nothing quite like this wine. Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2009 Woodenhead Méthode Champenoise Russian River Valley Sparkling Wine
212 cases, $46. This is a rarity: a sparkling wine made from French Colombard grapes. Disgorged March 12, 2012. · Pale yellow color in the glass. The aromas is leesy, with notes of yellow stone fruits and almonds. Very dry with biting acidity, this citrus driven wine has subtle notes of pear and tropical fruits. Drinks like a very good blanc de blanc Champagne at half the price. Score: 89. Reviewed August 15, 2014 ARTICLE »
2009 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.4% alc., $53. From old vines planted on Eastside Road across the Russian River from Rochioli Vineyard. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of Bing cherries, baking spices and a dusting of oak. Very soft and seamless in the mouth, with modest, lacy tannins, offering flavors of cherry pie filling and spice with a hint of sandalwood in the background. Elegant, yet with noticeable finishing power. Very good. Reviewed February 27, 2013 ARTICLE »
2009 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 296 cases, $60. Primarily Pommard clone with a little Mt. Eden selection. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. This wine is in a class by itself. The knockout nose is alive with flavors of fresh, perfectly ripe berries. Earthy and serious, with discreetly concentrated flavors of dark red and black berries that have a delicious sappiness that really sings. Beautifully balanced with well-honed tannins and a very long and generous finish. Many call this vineyard a California Grand Cru and that title is well earned. Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2008 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., 198 cases, $60. Last vintage for this vineyard designate as the vineyard is dying out due to phylloxera. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Brooding aromas of cherries, spice, and oak vanillin. Delicious fruit bombast featuring perfectly ripe flavors of black cherries and black raspberries, with notes of sassafras, cola and exotic spices. Very broad in the mouth and distinctive, leaving a lovely cherry kiss on the lingering finish. Harmonious in every way. I guarantee you will love this wine. An All- American for sure. Reviewed November 2, 2011 ARTICLE »
2007 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.2% alc.. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Terrific aromatic purity with scents of black cherry, white pepper, tobacco and seasoned oak. Beautifully balanced in a mid weight style featuring a charge of fresh, darker red fruits infused with joyous acidity. A 12-year-old wine that is still remarkably fresh. Reviewed December 17, 2019 ARTICLE »
2007 Woodenhead Humboldt County Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., $40. Unfined and unfiltered. · A fruity nose featuring fresh plums and boysenberries picking up intensity in the glass with oak dancing in and out along the way. Earth bound dark stone fruits with a wild quality. Nicely integrated oak with a hint of citric peel in the background. The tannins are well-structured and supple. Even better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Humboldt County - who knew? Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., $40. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Shy aromas of oak-infused cherry and berry fruits. Tasty cherry and berry essence with cola and oak in the background. Elegant with soft tannins and easy drinkability. A nice little wine for daily drinking. Good. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $57. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose needs some time to express itself, offering aromas of black cherries, spice box and herbs. Charming essence of cherries and sassafras with a good dose of baking spice and juicy fruit flavors. This wine has a way of drawing you in to its charms. This bottle did not show quite as well as the one that won the Pinot Cup at this year’s Pigs and Pinot event in Healdsburg. Very good. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $57. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet hue in the glass. On the nose there is a lovely interplay of cherry pie filling, spice, pencil lead and oak char aromas. This Pinot is a delicious cherry bombast nicely spiced with crisp and bright fruit lifted by gleeful acidity that shows up on the finish as a citrus note. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »
2007 Woodenhead Troika North Coast Pinot Noir
14.4% alc., 75 cases, $70. Three of best barrels, one each from Buena Tierra, Wiley and Fruitland vineyards. 100% new French oak barrels. The last version of this wine as two of the vineyard sources are no longer available. Tasted briefly at the winery. · Ripe black fruit profile including blackberry and black currant flavors backed by healthy tannins and underlain with noticeable oak. The fruit core is concentrated and sappy. Decant if you must open now, but this wine will benefit from even more time in bottle. Good. Reviewed June 23, 2013 ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc.. Unfined and unfiltered. 100% Rochioli selection. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of earthy flora and red cherry. A lighter-weighted wine featuring redder fruits and more spirited acidity. Reviewed December 17, 2019 ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Vintners Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Pinot
13.5% alc.. · A terrific Pinot brimming with spiced red fruits that are caressing in the mouth. Excellent balance and length with a long, powerfully aromatic finish. Clearly one of my standouts at the Festival. Reviewed June 9, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Vintners Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., 358 cases, $60. · This is as different from the Morning Dew bottling as night and day. A big, big wine, dark and brooding, loaded with tannin. Impenetrable now. Wiley Pinots from past vintages have been outstanding indicating patience is required with this one. Reviewed June 9, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., 358 cases, $60. When I tasted this almost a year ago, it was impenetrable and brooding. It has now opened up. · Medium ruby color. Flashy and expressive aromas of cherries and raspberries. Mouth filling richness with oodles of raspberry fruit, some Asian spice, and a long, chewy and aromatic finish. Really lovely wine with deft use of oak and impeccable balance. Expensive, yes, but worth it if you want the full experience. Reviewed June 5, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., pH 3.46, 358 cases, $60. Released in the fall 2008. 26-year-old vines. Pommard 5 and Romanee-Conti 37 clones. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately deep reddishpurple color in the glass. Polished cherry and stylish spice aromas. Delicious essence of fresh plums and black cherries with an underpinning of oak-driven root beer flavor with a potpourri of savory herbs. Impressive body and richness with nicely balanced tannins. Very good. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »
2005 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
13.9% alc.. Unfined and unfiltered. 66.6% Rochioli selection and 33.3% clone “828.’ · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Enticing aromas of spice, dried leaves and floral bouquet. A full-bodied wine, with a gorgeous core of Bing cherry fruit, gracious tannins, a trace of oak and a long finish with a good cut of acidity. Exceptional. Reviewed December 17, 2019 ARTICLE »
2005 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc.,180 cases, $45. Unfined and unfiltered. · Intoxicating scent of black cherry jam, cola, smoke and spice cabinet. Bright and fresh black cherries and summer berries nicely spiced and complimented by hints of loam, mushroom and citrus. A great expression of Pinot Noir that is seamless in every way and with lively acidity that will make it a perfect companion at the dinner table. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.. Unfined and unfiltered. 21.4% clone 777, 64.2% Rochioli selection (22% added as whole cluster) and 14.2% clone 23. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of forest floor and bruised cherry lead to a mid weight plus styled wine offering blackberry and cassis flavors with a hint of oak in the background. Still very much alive, with a juicy finish. Reviewed December 17, 2019 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Humboldt County Pinot Noir
112 cases, $32. Although Humboldt County is more well-known for an illegal mood-altering substance, there are several microclimates here that are ideal for Pinot Noir. One other producer from this region that stands out is Whitethorn. · Reviewed November 27, 2006 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 273 cases, $36. This wine is a combination of several vineyards, including Buena Tierra. · This medium-bodied Pinot has restrained but promising aromas of cherry, wet earth and Christmas spice. Burgundy-oriented pinotphiles, would be attracted to this understated wine which displays subtle flavors of cherry, clove, spice and oak with a generous acid backbone and dusty tannins on the finish. Reviewed November 27, 2006 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Vintners Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
15% alc., $45. · The subdued dark red fruits and subtle oak overtones in the nose are overshadowed by cinnamon-infused cherry, cola and baking spices on the palate. Despite the high alcohol, the fruit holds its own, and the whole package very enjoyable. This one grows in your mouth until you are smiling from ear to ear. Reviewed June 3, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.8% alc., 193 cases, $46. This 26-year-old vineyard is “the bomb.” · This Pinot is the closest of the three to the early Williams Selyem style and is flat-out terrific. It is light in color and elegant in style. The nose-grabbing aromatics feature cherry pie and Asian spices with a hint of alcohol. The mouth feel is luxurious and the lingering finish leaves dreamy memories of spiced cherries which last until the next sip. Beautifully balanced. You will need a cold soak after drinking this one. Reviewed November 27, 2006 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
166 cases, $46. This producer was featured recently in the PinotFile. Nikolai Stez spent 17 years working crushes at Williams Selyem. He now crafts small production, artisan Pinot Noirs of great interest. Woodenhead wines may be purchased on the website. · The wine has a pure red fruit nose of great elegance. Very lush in the mouth with plenty of spice and vim. More fruity than complex, with plenty of power to thrill. A Lolita. Reviewed January 22, 2007 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Morning Dew Ranch Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 166 cases, $46. After selling Williams Selyem and retiring, Burt Williams planted his own vineyard in the Anderson Valley. He is prevented from making wine himself because of a non-compete agreement, but probably prefers not too, simply relishing in nurturing a young vineyard to excellence. Two other producers are allocated grapes from Morning Dew Ranch - Whitcraft in Santa Barbara County and Brogan Cellars in Healdsburg. · This is a prodigious wine that is as dark as Pinot gets. With coaxing, a rich nose of dark fruits, brown spice and pepper emerges. The wine is dense and chewy on the palate with oak and earth notes preempting the fruit. The finish is mildly tannic with lively acidity. It is very tight and concentrated at this point and I recommend decanting, or preferably, cellaring for a period. Reviewed November 27, 2006 ARTICLE »
2004 Woodenhead Wiley Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
305 cases, $46. The Pinot Noir grapes for this wine come from 24-year-old vines, Pommard (5) and Martin Ray (37). It is one of the Anderson Valley’s heritage vineyards, the fourth planted after Edmeades, Husch and Van Hoorn. This vineyard is the closest to the ocean of any valley floor vineyard resulting in a very long growing season. · Reviewed November 27, 2006 ARTICLE »
2003 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.1% alc., 86 cases, $45. Unfined and unfiltered. · Smoky black cherries, cola and mocha carry this smooth and nicely weighted wine. The flavors fan out nicely on the palate and the finish has a lively tangerine peel tang. Still plenty of life ahead. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »
2002 Woodenhead Elk Prairie Vineyard Humboldt County Pinot Noir
14.1% alc. Woodenhead is a small artisanal producer of Pinot Noir and Zinfandel sourced primarily from vineyards in the Russian River Valley and Anderson Valley. The owner and winemaker is Nikolai Stez. The phone is 707-887-2703. The wines are offered on the website at www.woodenheadwine.com. · The aromas trump the flavors here. The perfume of deep, dark cherries and spicy oak draw you in. Blackberry and black cherry compose the flavor profile accented with a char note. A touch of phenolic bitterness mars the finish. Reviewed May 7, 2007 ARTICLE »
2002 Woodenhead Buena Tierra Vineyard Original Planting Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 120 cases, $45. Unfined and unfiltered. · Rich and sensual aromas of black cherries, exotic spices, and smoke with a hint of raisin. Complex and compelling flavor profile of dark stone fruits and berries, almonds, mocha and earth. Supple and refined with angel hair tannins and a refreshingly tangy finish. A very seductive drink that is showing some aged patina. Reviewed October 1, 2008 ARTICLE »