Stewart (Russian River)

The growing conditions of  the Russian River Valley were nearly ideal for producing very ripe, intensely flavored grapes. Rainfall throughout the year was scant and the summer temperatures were moderate. This Pinot Noir clearly shows the quality and character of the stellar vintage. The wine is dark purple, immediately forecasting its concentrated dark fruit core. Its aroma is loaded with berry and dark toffee notes, mingling with a subtle touch of very fine French oak. In the mouth the wine is rich and dense, powerful for a Pinot Noir, with a little young tannin that will melt away with years in the bottle. The ripeness of the vintage is evident in the layered notes of plum, cranberry, pomegranate and molasses. The dense, fleshy texture continues through a long, juicy finish.