When assembling our Russian River Valley blend, we have the great advantage of choosing from a diverse array of vineyard sites. Since our estate vineyards, from which we make our vineyard-designate wines, dot the Russian River appellation, we are able to choose lots that highlight the best characteristics of our valley. Grapes from the Santa Rosa Plain bring a classic cherry aroma and round mouthfeel. Sebastopol Hills vineyards provide enticing perfume and bright acidity. Laguna Ridge fruit contributes dark berries with rich tannins. We bring all of these elements together to produce a wine that showcases our world-class appellation.The aromas on the nose are red-fruit driven, featuring ripe raspberries and fresh strawberries with a pretty hint of vanilla. On entry, this wine is bright and buoyed by refreshing acidity, and a persistent core of tannins brings elegant texture. Hints of yellow fruit skin and gravel give way to a slightly spicy finish highlighted by notes of blood orange and cherry cola. | Merry EdwardsDense and structured, this robust wine offers more than the usual tannins and acidity, giving it a grippy mouthfeel and the potential to mellow with time. Black cherries, black currants and woodsy spices are there, waiting to develop. | 92 points, Jim Gordon, Wine EnthusiastAged nine months in (47% new) French oak and whole berry fermented, this red dispenses aromas of crushed violets, incense, wet stone, and boysenberry. Prickly white pepper perks up notes of plum and mocha. There's a "calmness" on mid-palate with a hint of orange rind, soy sauce, and brushy, dried wildflowers. | 93 points, Meridith May, Tasting Panel magazineLots of focused tannins and dark fruits such as cherries and strawberries. Hibiscus. Very clear and precise. Full to medium body. Very fine and clean tannins. Orange peel. Linear and racy finish. | 93 points, James Suckling for jamessuckling.com