2018 Goorgian Vineyards Pinot Noir (1 X 750 ML)

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The Davies family of Schramsberg Vineyards and Davies Vineyards in the Napa Valley is pleased to release its fifth vintage of its Goorgian Vineyards Pinot Noir. The family's experience with Pinot Noir dates back to 1967, when Jack and Jamie Davies first used this elegant red varietal to make their inaugural vintage of Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine. Over the 52 years following that first use, Schramsberg's winemakers have built long-lasting relationships with some of the best Pinot Noir growers in the North Coast. Developing upon this passion, history, and experience, second-generation Vintner Hugh Davies and Director of Winemaking Sean Thompson are proud to present this vineyard-designate Pinot Noir from southern Mendocino County's Anderson Valley.

The Goorgian Vineyard is located at the northwestern end of the Anderson Valley, 10 miles east of the Pacific Ocean and situated on steep, rocky northwest facing slopes with an elevation ranging from 200-600 feet. Shallow loamy topsoil facilitates excellent drainage above a layer of sandstone and shale, stressing the roots to reach for nutrients and water. Cooler daily temperatures are ideal for Pinot Noir with nightly coastal breezes, creating the perfect sugar to acid balance in the grapes. This environment provides a long, even growing season which delivers mature fruit depth with a vibrant, acidic backbone. Goorgian Vineyards is managed by our long-time grape growing partner, Paul Ardzrooni.

The 2018 growing season in Anderson Valley was not as warm as in recent years. Daily diurnal shifts, characteristic of the Anderson Valley AVA, were moderated by the cooler summer temperatures. Fewer heat spikes allowed the fruit to mature slowly and steadily, lengthening the growing season. Along with a balanced, healthy crop, this elongated growing season presented an ideal situation for full phenolic development with enticing intensity of freshness, and concentration of fruit flavor.

Tasting notes

The 2018 Goorgian Pinot Noir starts off with dense aromas of black cherry, and blackberry compote, followed by vanilla baking spice, and a touch of black tea. The balanced structure on the palate has a rich entry of blueberry and marionberry, with a long finish accentuated by nutmeg and cinnamon.- Winemakers Sean Thompson and Hugh Davies

Reviews

94 Points, Editors' Choice
Great complexity, balance and finesse make this medium- to full-bodied wine something special. It blends ample blackcherry, black-tea and rhubarb nuances on a moderately tannic and vibrant texture that carries the inviting flavors through a lingering finish.- Wine Enthusiast, February/March Advance Buying Guide
93 Points
Just as it did in 2017, the 2018 Goorgian Vineyards Pinot rises to the top of the Davies class. Its enticing aromas of pulpy black cherries and creamy oak offer immense immediate appeal and are fully echoed in kind by its impeccably balanced, beautifully sustained flavors. That said, it teases with glimmers of complexity and additional layering to come with age, and, whether enjoyed soon or held for another five-plus years if patience permits, it is a decidedly serious, impressively filled wine that is as carefully composed as it is so very rich.- Connoisseurs Guide to California Wine (February 2021)
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