RRV PN from TJs

Fast facts:

• 2021  Trader Joe’s Grand Reserve Lot #122 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California ($12.99 @Trader Joe’s, California)

Let’s start by unpacking the alphabet soup in our subject line, shall we?  The Russian River Valley (RRV) is an important part of Sonoma, and Pinot Noir (PN) is an important part of  da RRV.  Which is – thankfully – where this Trader Joe’s (TJs) wine hails from. We’re thankful because some of the best Pinot Noir wines in the world come from the hallowed soils of this region.

The Russian River Valley AVA is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Sonoma County, California. Centered on the Russian River, it accounts for about one-sixth of the total planted vineyard acreage in Sonoma County. It has a characteristically cool climate, and not suprisingly is known for its success with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

According to the trade group Russian River Valley Winegrowers, 42 percent of the grapes harvested in the region are Chardonnay, while 29 percent are Pinot Noir.  As of 2008, the Russian River Valley accounted for nearly 19% of all the Pinot Noir plantings in California and 10% of all grape varieties planted in Sonoma County.

Tasting Notes:

Nice dusty earthiness on the nose.  In the mouth, notes of Dr. Pepper, rhubard, strawberry and black cherries with silky tannins, hints of vanilla and a long, lingering finish. Nicely balanced and would pair well with grilled salmon, especially if prepared on a cedar plank, right Dr. Jim?   ABV=14.7%

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Cheers!