Winemaker's Comments

I have high expectations of my small cadre of growers and enjoy immensely the close association we have developed over the years. Together we determine how to thin the fruit to enhance flavor, which vineyard rows to select for my wines and when to harvest the grapes to capture peak ripeness.

The vineyards shape the fruit's quality, and I create a wine­making environment that will bring forward these natural attributes. Using grapes from two respected, mature vine­yards, Olivet Lane and Klopp Ranch, I have blended a smooth, showy Pinot Noir with inimitable Russian River Valley character. Prior to fermentation, I cold soaked whole berries to optimize the fruit's summer cherry and red rasp­berry flavors. Ten months aging in fifty-eight percent new French cooperage has added elements of oak sweetness and appealing vanilla.

Heady aromas introduce this vibrant Pinot Noir. Abun­dant sweet spice and succulent red fruit flavors are finely balanced. Lively in the mouth, this Pinot Noir is long and luscious at the finish. As the wine unfolds, it reveals tiers of complexity and impressive potential for aging. The year 1999 was beautiful for Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley.

Critical Acclaim

91 points

"Big and full in mouth with juicy blackberry and cherry flavors, complex spice component, good structure and balance." PinotReport, June 2002

90 points

"Among the finest we have tasted from the USA in the 1999 vintage." Wine & Spirits, February 2002

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Recipes

Art's Braised Short Ribs

Fall-Inspired Butternut Squash and Shiitake Enchiladas

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