93 points Wine Spectator – 2018 RR Pinot Noir, Estate Reserve

RR Pinot Noir Bottle Shot w/Background

RR

Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge Ridgecrest Vineyards Estate Reserve 2018

Score: 93

Release Price $69

Country United States

Region Willamette Valley

Issue: Feb 28, 2021

Tasting Note

Rich and fleshy, with plump raspberry and black cherry flavors that bring in orange zest and toasty spice flavors and finish with refined tannins. Drink now through 2026. 364 cases made. — TF


Technical Data –

AbV – 14.6% | TA – 5.9 g/L | pH – 3.46
Cooperage – 10 months in 53% new, 40% 1-yr & 7% neutral + 7 months neutral French oak barrels
Clones – 67% Pommard, 33% Wädenswil; all own-rooted and planted in 1982
Production – 364 cases | Release – November 2020 | Enjoy – now – 2037

Winemaker’s Notes –

The intensity of the 2018 vintage is the focus of our barrel selection Pinot Noir from Ridgecrest Vineyards. This wine is comprised of two clones of the oldest vines on Ribbon Ridge AVA, Pommard and Wädenswil, and shows the depth and complexity of flavor and aroma only old vines can produce. The color is the first indication of depth; showing deep, dark, purple-red color. Aromatic intensity shows with fresh-picked warm blackberries, cherry liqueur, vanilla and wood spice, and sultry berry crumble. Sweet and spicy play on the palate as well, with dense, firm fruit tannins mid-palate which taper to a long and smooth finish, and accents of cocoa powder and blue to black fruit. All that, wrapped in a tight little bow of acid, is a complete package that will only continue to reward those that have the patience to wait for a few years of aging.

Vintage Notes –

We kind of cruised into the 2018 harvest, after an early bud break and bloom, a comfortably warm spring, and those precious, cool, summer evenings that make our eyes light up. The stellar prospect of the vintage was heightened by a “cool” final ripening compared most of the previous five. Perfectly ripe, but not overly so. Zero disease pressure, thanks to coastal and ridge-top breezes and the absence of rain. Rich flavors with an edge of restraint, combined with the lift of gentle acidity. Textbook perfect from our vantage, and worthy of all the hype.

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