The Anderson Valley started out as an area known for aromatic white wines, but ever since winemakers discovered that the cool, coastal-adjacent terroir was perfect for Burgundian varieties, it has become renowned for its spectacular pinot noirs. The 24th Annual Pinot Noir Festival brought wineries, producers and 800 pinot aficionados together in one place to celebrate this aromatic grape. Here are a few of the “best of the fest,” including both seasoned veterans and some new faces.
BRASHLEY VINEYARDS
Hacienda Sequoia Pinot Noir, $65
The new kid on the block comes on strong with this pinot noir from their home vineyard. Ashley and Bram discovered Anderson Valley on a trip to the Bay Area and have not looked back. Hiring Ashley Holland as winemaker, Brashley wines are fruit-forward with structure and long finishes. Spice and cedar on the nose with black olive and black cherry flavors on the palate. Brashleyvineyards.com
LULA CELLARS
Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, 2020, $50
This gorgeous blend of pinot noirs, from Lula’s own pinot noir vineyard in the revered “Deep End” of the valley and close to the Pacific as well as select local vineyards. On the nose, floral plum, cherry and light toasty oak with flavors. Red fruit on the palate with savory undertones and a long memorable finish. 94 points from Wine Enthusiast. Lulacellars.com
HUSCH VINEYARDS
Knoll Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2019, $45
Husch was the first bonded winery in the Anderson Valley, and the first to plant pinot noir in 1971 on a piece of property called “The Knoll” overlooking the Navarro River. The Knoll is hand-picked and sorted, with 25% of the grapes not de-stemmed and fermented whole cluster for added body and flavors. This vintage of Knoll is well-balanced with red fruits on the nose and raspberry, vanilla and spice on the palate. Drink it now and for 10 years. Huschvineyards.com
DOMAINE ANDERSON
Estate Pinot Noir, 2019, $55
Winemaker Darrin Low takes fruit from the extensive Roederer plantings and, while Scharffenberger and Roederer Estate make sparkling wines, Domaine Anderson produces excellent still wines from pinot noir, chardonnay and other grape varietals. A blend of the Dach and Walraven vineyards, this pinot noir is translucent – pale ruby with aromas with rose petal, red cherry and a hint of smoke. Crushed raspberries and fresh mushroom flavors. 93 points from James Suckling. Domaineanderson.com
MEYER FAMILY CELLARS
Wightman House Vineyard Pinot Noir, $52
With a family pedigree and years of experience making wine in Napa Valley, it is natural that winemaker Matt Meyer would have the same magic with pinot noir. Wightman House is a heritage property with some of the oldest pinot planted in Anderson Valley. With less than two tons of small berries coming from an acre, this is rare fruit that bursts with aromas of red cherry, blood orange peel, vanilla and Medjool dates. A memorable wine from a classic wine family. Meyerfamilycellars.com
Courtesy of Barbara Barielle, Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association
