HISTORY:
Rod Strong was among the fi rst modern wine pioneers with a vision to plant Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley. In 1968, he planted our heritage River East Vineyard in the alluvial clay-loam soils adjacent to the winery in Healdsburg. Today the Russian River Valley is well established as one of the premier Pinot Noir growing regions in the world, and we continue to rely on the original River East Vineyard as a core contributor to our estate vineyard bottling.
THE VINTAGE & VINEYARD:
Early winter showers were followed by a warm, dry beginning to the new growing season, setting the stage for an early bud break. Alternating overcast days and heat waves continued through spring and summer, with a particularly hot period in late June, and an unseasonal rain in July. The Pinot Noir was harvested August 10 through September 4.
TASTING NOTES:
The 2015 Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir has lovely aromas of red fruit, fl oral and earth. With a soft and silky texture, on the palate dark cherry, cranberry, and baking spice characteristics shine through with balance, acidity and a nice lingering fi nish. This medium bodied wine was aged for 14 months in small French oak barrels, which added a hint of toasty vanilla and spice complexity. Enjoy this Pinot Noir now with charcuterie, wild mushroom risotto, grilled pork tenderloin or cellar it for enjoyment for the next 2 to 4 years.
- CELLAR & FERMENTATION: 14 months in 100% French oak barrels, 35% new
- ALCOHOL: 14.5%
- TA: 0.52 g/100 mL
- PH: 3.60
- ** Only 2 in Stock **
An upbeat, modern style of pinot that has a wealth of bright and ripe red-cherry aromas with a smoothly delivered, succulent palate that carries a long, juicy finish. Drink or hold. - James Suckling 92 Points
Ultimate Beverage Challenge 96 points - 2018 Ultimate Wine Challenge (Tried and True Award)(Great Value)(Finalist) - High-toned and spicy, with notes of Bing cherry, peach, clementine zest, and iron. A hint of tomato leaf and clove on the palate with bright notes of strawberries and red currants that allude to the berries and white pepper that dot the finish.