Overview

Domaine Anderson is nestled in the breathtaking, fog-cooled hillside and mountain terrain of Northern California’s Anderson Valley. The cooling marine layer that is characteristic of this region provides ideal conditions for the cultivation of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. The wines are crafted with precision and care to express the uniqueness of our Anderson Valley terroir. The Estate Pinot Noir is made from grapes sourced exclusively from our Anderson Valley vineyards, giving the winemaking team complete control over farming practices and stewardship of the land.

Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested in small lots at ideal ripeness and transported immediately from the vineyard to the winery, treated with extra care, and are guided by a philosophy of minimum intervention throughout the winemaking process. The team hand-sorts and gently extracts the juices from the grapes. Open top fermentation tanks are used to achieve precise extraction of flavors and color while slow malolactic fermentation defines structure and enhances the clarity of site-specific aromatics for the Pinot Noir. The wine is then pressed with a hydraulic basket press. 30% new oak is used for the 2013 vintage. In order to respect the fruit flavors and not dominate them, the winemaking team carefully tracks development and maturity, blending separate lots for an optimal flavor profile. This attentive barrel aging process – known as élevage – results in wines that are rich and naturally complex. Finally, the Pinot Noir is aged for 16 months to fully develop aromas and refine structure.

Tasting Notes

A chameleon in the glass, the 2013 Domaine Anderson Pinot Noir oscillates among aromas of black cherries, turned earth and cloves with hints of wood smoke. The black cherry is echoed on the palate. The firm tannic core is enveloped in a satiny robe of black and red cherries, with red plum skin flavors. Earthy bark spice and exotic oak intermingle with fresh fruits. Generous without heaviness, the wine is sophisticated and confident.