Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, CA ($46)
by Andrew Chalk
Gary Farrell Vineyards and Winery produces a large range of pinot noir wines each distinguished by its origins. This wine is sourced from seven different vineyards in Sonoma County’s famous Russian River Valley. Partly whole-cluster fermented and aged in 35% new French oak for 10 months the vinification is generally mainstream. However, it was held in bottle for 15 months before release. Production is a modest 10,055 cases.
Drink now. Either quaffed heartily or with veal, pork, or white-sauced pasta recipes.
A: Translucent purple;
N: Earthy, black cherry, perfumy, black pepper. Clean, medium intensity;
T: Soft tannins, chewy texture. Bright red fruit. A little thin in the mid-palate. Mild French oak flavors;
Sample. Bottle no. 057462.
