Dark cherry aromas and notes of pomegranate are evident at first nosing. Beneath the primary fruit character are hints of smoky herbs, dried citrus peel, and wood spices. […]
Read More| TA | 0.62g/100mL |
|---|---|
| pH | 3.54 |
| Alc. | 14.2% |
| Barrel Description | 44% new, 56% 1 yr. |
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| Barrel Aged | 10 months |
Dark cherry aromas and notes of pomegranate are evident at first nosing. Beneath the primary fruit character are hints of smoky herbs, dried citrus peel, and wood spices. Very dense on the palate, the wine offers robust tannins and a sense of opulence. Dark cherry and pomegranate are echoed in the flavors with a subtle lift of citrus peel in the middle palate while the wine finishes with wonderful hints of Brazilian coffee.
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.
Jeff Mangahas blended this wine from three coastal sites. Terra de Permissio in the Petaluma Gap, Coastlands in Occidental and Williams Selyem's Drake Estate in Guerneville. It's spicy, bright and pretty, an open welcoming wine right down to the sweetness of its tannins. The flavors of salted plum and shiso leaf suggest serving this with pan seared duck marinated in mirin and soy, or broiled unagi over rice. J.G.
The 2017 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) is another pretty appellation-level wine in the lineup. Crushed flowers, mint, sweet red berry fruit and white pepper all give the 2017 an attractive upper register to play off the wine's mid-weight structure. I very much like the understated energy here. A.G.
The 2017 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is pale to medium ruby with a lovely Cran Apple, blueberry and warm black berries-scented nose with notions of nutmeg, potpourri and dusty earth. It's medium-bodied and spicy in the mouth with very soft, grainy tannins, juicy acidity and a long, nuanced finish. 1,988 cases produced. Anticipated maturity: 2019 - 2025.
This wine has a fresh, bubbly personality that’s complemented by complex, earthy undertones of rose and forest floor. The tannins offer grip to the palate, adding texture and weight within a framework of balanced acidity. —V.B.
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2017 Allen Vineyard Chardonnay