Champ de Reves
2011 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir •Boone Ridge
California: Mendocino County: Anderson Valley
Mission Briefing
Mendocino's Finest
Today’s Champ de Reves Vineyards 2011 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is an incredibly delicious, super aromatic Pinot from the Anderson Valley. We had a number of Pinots at recent tasting panels, but this is the one that had us reaching for more.
Elegant and Burgundian in nature, this wine is driven by notes of terroir and structure rather than bright fruit. This winemaking style results in a very well-balanced, luxurious wine that we feel could be a match for many higher priced bottles.
Both Robert Parker and Stephen Tanzer awarded today’s wine 91 Points, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re looking for a stunning Pinot (and not wanting to bust your wallet in the process!), this is the wine for you.
Tasting Profile
| Look: | Dark red with flecks of magenta in the heart of the glass, slowly lightening towards the edge of the glass. |
|---|---|
| Smell: | Very aromatic and reminiscent of perfume on the nose, with fresh raspberry and blueberry laid overtop cola, sandalwood, lavender, white flower petals, eucalyptus, and a touch of clove. |
| Taste: | Incredibly well balanced between fruit and earth, with just-ripened raspberry and tart cherry in perfect unison with cherry cola, European licorice, spiced cherry wood, fennel, river rock minerality, and a hint of rose petal. |
| Finish: | Best decanted, the wine takes a moment to open up. You’ll then be greeted by a smooth and supple finish, with bright, refreshing acidity and lovely, velvety tannins. At the very end, a touch of pomegranate herbal tea lingers on the tongue. |
| Pairing: | Salmon with a red wine and butter reduction, finished with fresh garlic and shallots. |
What the Winery Says
- Winemaker
- Eric Johannsen
- Accolades
- 91 Points - Robert Parker, 91 Points - Stephen Tanzer
- Appellation
- Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California
- Vineyard
- Boone Ridge
- Cooperage
- 9 months in French oak, 21% new
- ABV
- 14.1%