“One of the great regions for the varietal.” – Robb Report

Two Russian River Valley vineyards. Two legendary clones (667 and Beringer) of Pinot Noir. A world-class winemaker, and one beautifully made wine that rivals some of the very best of the region. We’re looking at you, Gary Farrell, Emeritus, WALT, Copain, Lynmar, Williams Selyem, and yes, Kosta…

And the $79 winery price? POOF! Gone. Replaced with a remarkable nearly 70% OFF dropping this to well under $30. That puts this high-end Pinot from the near-perfect 2021 vintage in “entry level” price territory. Well, it’s anything but…

ACTA in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley specializes in small production wines. The name is short for ACTA NON VERBA, meaning Deeds Not Words. Everything is done so with intention and authenticity.

While the vineyards provide the sustenance to create this compelling wine, it’s consulting winemaker Joe Nielsen who focuses on the brilliance of these. If you don’t know Joe, you may know his work at Ram’s Gate and Donelan. His ability to wrangle glorious Pinot Noir and Chardonnay into something special is on full display here.

But that starts with the fruit. A Sebastopol vineyard (under NDA to protect the famous name behind it) makes up 75% of this wine and offers loads of pure, ripe, red fruits. There’s weight and density, and still enough acidity to give it the lift it needs. The remainder comes from a dry-farmed vineyard near Graton, where spice, forest floor, and savory elements come into play. That synergy means elegant, thoughtful, and dangerously drinkable Pinot Noir. As Decanter says, “This is the kind of RRV Pinot you’ll want on hand for effortless, anytime drinking.”

Red cherries and pomegranate step forward first, flanked by subtle rose petals, baking spices, and a whisper of mushrooms and forest floor. A kiss of sweet, toasty oak drifts in from the 25% new French oak without coming off as heavy or overdone. Silky smooth, layered, and seductive in its design, it all unravels into a finish that lingers for days.

This small-production wine means very little was made, and we have a modest amount to share here today. Lock it down while you can!

92 Points – Decanter “Alluring notes of cherry, cherry pit, and cherrywood rise from the glass, intertwined with fine brown baking spices and hints of cedarwood. The medium-bodied palate builds with a creamy richness and smooth tannins, revealing nuances of clove and wet stone minerality on the finish. Just 16 barrels were produced, aged 11 months in 25% new French oak. This is the kind of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir you’ll want on hand for effortless, anytime drinking. Drink 2025-2029.”