Winemaker Greg La Follette reaches north to Mendocino County’s undersung Oppenlander vineyard for part of the blend here, the balance coming from Hawks Roost vineyard in Sonoma County. The result in the glass was my tasting panel favorite in a flight of solid Pinot Noir, showing cherry, raspberry, fall spice aromatics, with some earth and kirsch on release. A bold, fruit-driven palate entry with nice acidity, some edgy oak and rich earthy character join the promised fruit and run together through a bright finish. It is still integrating its wood, but it should ease into an elegant expression with some cellar time.
Marchelle, Mendocino County / Sonoma County (California) Pinot Noir 2020
By Rich Cook