Ramey Pinot Noir Russian River 2017

This Ramey Russian River Valley Pinot Noir strikes a fine balance between rich, unctuous styles and leaner, coastal styles. It is at once both elegant and delicious.

After all, David Ramey is a man whoDecantercalled one of Californias best and most respected winemakers andWine Spectatorlauded as having a masters touch. While his legendary Chardonnay program began with single-vineyard designates, he flipped the script with Pinot Noir, aiming to capture the essence of the broader Russian River appellation.

92+ Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, it has a gregarious, youthful nose with tangerine peel, soft baking spices, forest floor and a wicked vein of floral nuance with warm red and black fruits at the core. The palate gives good concentration of spicy fruit, with grainy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing long and spicy.

92 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

As to the reds, the 2017 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley comes from a handful of sites and spent 14 months in just under 40% new French oak. Its translucent ruby color is followed by a complex, earthy effort that offers mulled strawberry and cherry fruit, notes of dried herbs, forest floor, and saddle leather, medium-bodied richness, and a great texture. This Burgundy lovers Pinot Noir shines for its complexity and elegance more than power and richness.

91 Points – Wine Enthusiast

This wine is sourced from a selection of different vineyards, including Bucher along Westside Road. Earthy funk underlies high-toned red cherry, rhubarb and strawberry, threading the needle between richness and crispness. A salty savory finish tops things off.

90 Points – Wine Spectator

Delicate, with finely textured dried cherry and raspberry tart flavors, supported by fresh acidity. Shows cherry confit notes midpalate, revealing plenty of spice and smoke hints on the finish.