2017 Three Sticks Pinot Noir Walala Vineyard
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From a vineyard I’m not familiar with that’s located far out on the Sonoma Coast, above the fog line yet only a handful of miles from the Pacific Ocean, the 2017 Pinot Noir Walala Vineyard saw the standard vinification and elevage, being mostly destemmed and brought up in 50% new oak. It has classic Sonoma Coast darker berry fruits as well as hints of cola, spice, and darker, earthier nuances. Beautifully balanced, medium-bodied, and incredibly elegant, it’s another smoking good wine from this team.
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James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
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The 2017 Pinot Noir Walala Vineyard was made using 23% whole cluster and aged 15 months in 50% new French oak. Pale ruby-purple, it offers nutmeg-laced cranberries, stewed rhubarb and sweet red cherries with earthy accents of black tea leaves, woodsmoke, soil and autumn leaves plus a touch of tangerine peel. The palate is light-bodied but not lacking in flavor and is gently framed, with juicy freshness on the spicy finish. This merits another year in bottle. 281 cases produced.
The nose here is a savory and quiet restrained style with stones and flinty elements on offer, as well as violets and blue fruit. The palate has a bolder feel with attractively focused flavors of ripe dark cherries and blueberries and a juicy, punchy finish. Drink or hold.