In the glass, the vibrant red color immediately evokes images of red fruits and roses. Notes of vanilla mix with bergamot and complement the red cherry and raspberry […]
Read More| TA | 0.62g/100mL |
|---|---|
| pH | 3.36 |
| Alc. | 13.9% |
| Barrel Description | 66% new, 34% 1 yr. |
|---|---|
| Barrel Aged | 14 months |
In the glass, the vibrant red color immediately evokes images of red fruits and roses. Notes of vanilla mix with bergamot and complement the red cherry and raspberry aromas, while deep base notes of saddle leather belie the fruit and further add complexity. Hints of fresh herbs round out the kaleidoscope of aromas. The red fruit character comes through on the tongue and is framed with notes of Earl Grey tea. The palate has a sense of harmony with a great acid-to-tannin balance which makes the wine very approachable in its youth. The older vines in the Olivet Lane vineyard have a polished texture that allows for early consumption. However, make no mistake that this wine can benefit from several years of aging.
It was an auspicious start to the 2017 growing season with steady rain followed by dry spells which allowed for the soil profile to fill up progressively. The waterworks kicked into high gear in January at which point over 20 inches of rain had accumulated. That’s nearly double the historical average. 2017 was epic in many respects and at one point the Russian River waters touched Westside Road and the winery was waterfront property! As the waters receded and the soil dried up, temperatures moderated, and bud break ensued by mid-March. Steady rain through the vegetative cycle was balanced with days of brilliant sunshine which helped to grow green, healthy plants. The weather was very fine in May for the flowering period and ideal for the fruit set. As the season progressed there were periods of heat that occurred with some regularity. With plenty of water in the soil profile, the plants did not stress too much and physiological maturity continued at an accelerated pace. Due to the diversity in our vineyard sources, there is normally a natural spread in the pick dates. However, in 2017 there was compression of the harvest and many of the vineyards were ready in a short period of time. The process was nearly complete by the time the intense Labor Day heat wave hit and, thankfully, had concluded before the devastating wildfires in October. Through a Herculean effort in the vineyards and at the winery we were able to pick the grapes at the optimal time and preserve the freshness and acidity of the vintage. The consequent wines show a refinement to the tannin structure which will allow for early consumption but will age gracefully with mid-term cellaring. Through and through, the 2017 is an excellent vintage.
This grows at Pelegrini family's vineyard in Santa Rosa, one of the first plantings of pinot noir in the Russian River Valley. The vines are now well past 40, and their concentrated fruit produced a taut and juicy 2017. That fruit comes in shades of red, from Bing cherry to ripe strawberry and darker raspberry, generous, cool and spicy. Oak keeps it structured with a cinnamon bark note. Decant it for a salad of duck confit and pomegranate. J.G.
The 2017 Pinot Noir Olivet Lane Vineyard is soft, open-knit and inviting. Red berry fruit, silky tannins and expressive floral/spice overtones give the 2017 much of its undeniably allure. I imagine the 2017 will provide readers with a long window of drinking pleasure.
The 2017 Pinot Noir Olivet Lane Vineyard is pale to medium ruby-purple with a poignant nose of blueberry, red berry preserves, Earl Grey tea leaves, warm blackberry and dusty earth. Light to medium-bodied with a concentrated core of perfumed fruits, it offers wonderful freshness and a soft frame of tannins, with baking spices coming through on the finish. 347 cases were made. Anticipated maturity: 2020 - 2030.
Pungently floral and inviting, this vineyard site is in the heart of the Olivet Lane District, a historic part of the larger appellation. Orange and rhubarb flavors contribute a fleshy texture and a biting, high-toned lilt of acidity. Persistent notes of Asian spice and black tea give it complexity and length. —V.B.
All Our WinesVisit our wine library to find a specific bottle or peruse our full collection.
How To PurchaseOur wines are available twice a year for purchase.
Visit The WineryArrange a private tour and tasting tailored specifically for you.
2017 Allen Vineyard Chardonnay