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Wine Recommendation
Arista Winery
2005 Pinot Noir, Mononi Vineyard(Russian River Valley)
While Arista Winery readies its new growth estate vineyards, it has been fortunate to secure grapes from neighboring Russian River Valley vineyards. The Mononi Vineyard is about a decade old and its plantings of Dijon Clones 113 and 115 are pitch perfect to soak up the fog and cooler temperatures of this area.
Winemakers Leslie Sisneros and Mark McWilliams handcrafted just over 100 cases of this exquisite example of Pinot Noir. From the intense opening nose of cherries and baking spices to the, well, just plain delicious flavors of raspberries, cherries, and spice, the Mononi Vineyard Pinot Noir does not disappoint. The balance of acidity and fruit, combined with the medium bodied texture, are complemented by the smoky tannins and subtle wood. According to Mark, it is the blending of the two clones that creates the magic in this wine, with 115’s great body and forward fruit and 113’s acidity and tonal tones of cranberry and pomegranate.
Arista Pinot Noirs are all made in small lots, so accordingly are on an allotment basis with some usually available in their Westside Road tasting room.
Reviewed September 12, 2007 by Michael Lasky.
Other reviewed wines from Arista Winery
The Wine
Winery: Arista Winery |
The Reviewer
Michael Lasky
APPELLATION AMERICA’s Managing Editor, Michael Lasky, has been writing about food and wine for over 20 years. His work has appeared in national magazines such as Playboy, Esquire, GQ, and Parade, and newspapers such as The New York Times, USA Today, Newsday, and the San Francisco Chronicle. His wine reviews focus on the aroma, taste, and visual appeal of what’s in the glass. He is decidedly not a wine snob and prefers to describe its virtues in conversational prose that speaks to everyone from wine neophytes to veteran connoisseurs. He only reviews delicious wines. |