Russian River Valley Pinot Noir (2016)
SommeliAI Insights
A vibrant Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley, showcasing rich cherry and berry flavors with subtle earthy undertones.
About this wine
The 2016 Havens Russian River Valley Pinot Noir offers a delightful bouquet of ripe cherries and berries, complemented by subtle earthy notes. On the palate, it presents a harmonious blend of fresh cranberries and hints of sage, with soft yet firm tannins leading to a bright, lingering finish. The Russian River Valley, known for its cool climate and morning fog, provides ideal conditions for cultivating Pinot Noir, resulting in wines with vibrant acidity and complex flavors. This region's unique terroir imparts distinctive characteristics to the wine, making it a noteworthy example of California Pinot Noir. The 2016 vintage, marked by a steady growing season, allowed for full ripeness without overexposure to heat, preserving the grape's natural balance and depth.
About the grape
Pinot Noir, meaning "black pine cone" in French due to its dark color and tightly clustered grapes, is one of the oldest grape varieties, with roots tracing back to France's Burgundy region. In Sonoma County, particularly the Russian River Valley, Pinot Noir found a suitable environment thanks to the cool climate influenced by Pacific Ocean fog. This region's unique conditions have made it a prime area for cultivating Pinot Noir, leading to its prominence in wines like the 2016 Havens Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.
Quick facts
- 🍇 The Russian River Valley, located 55 miles north of San Francisco, is renowned for its award-winning Pinot Noir, thanks to its cool climate and diverse terroir.
- 🏞️ Established as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1983, the Russian River Valley's winemaking history spans over 150 years, with some of California's oldest grapevines planted here.
- 🍷 Pinot Noir, the primary grape varietal in the Russian River Valley, is known for its delicate skin and susceptibility to environmental factors, making it a challenging yet rewarding grape to cultivate.
- 🌫️ The region's proximity to the Pacific Ocean results in a cooling fog that blankets the vineyards, creating ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir with vibrant acidity and complex flavors.
- 🎉 The 2016 vintage of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is celebrated for its balance and elegance, reflecting the region's unique climate and soil composition.
Palate profile
Producer
Havens Winery was established in 1984 in Napa Valley, California, with a focus on producing Merlot, Syrah, and Bourriquot—a Cabernet Franc/Merlot blend inspired by Château Cheval Blanc. In 2010, the winery was acquired by the Smith-Anderson Wine Group, which expanded the portfolio to include Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The winery sources grapes from diverse Napa Valley regions, including Carneros and Howell Mountain, and is known for creating elegant red blends with balanced flavors and smooth finishes. The tasting room is located in downtown Napa, offering visitors a chance to experience their handcrafted varietals.
