About the Wine: The Russian River Valley is one of the best regions in California for growing Pinot Noir. Finding a Pinot Noir from there at this price is either a really good find or a looming disappointment.
About THIS Wine:The center is crimson with a light red rim. Earth, smoke, and mineral notes dominate the nose, reminiscent of a Red Burgundy. Those flavors deliver on a palate with what I would describe as an earthy punch, a sharpness that I would not have expected. The finish is very light after the heavy palate, with more mineral notes and some red fruit lingering.
Drinking This Wine: The palate is a bit too heavy for a sipping wine. Enjoy with swordfish or some other dark fish. This would be too heavy for most white meats and too light for red meat.
Overall Impression: This wine is good for the price but I think it will improve with a few more years of aging. It's still pretty coarse.
