La Crema 2016 Pinot Noir, 9 Barrel, Russian River Vly.

La Crema Vinera, means “best of the vine,” setting the standard for
all they do since 1979. This family-owned and operated winery focuses exclusively on cool-climate appellations like the Russian River Valley, the heart—and soul—of the Sonoma Coast.

This wine is a selection of nine of the best tasting barrels from four of the winemaker's favorite vineyards. The estate portion came from their Barbieri and Bellower vineyards, located in the Santa Rosa Plains area of the Russian River Valley, offering the darker, spicier notes in the blend. The blocks and clones were kept separate until final blending to allow the greatest range of expression. Aged 15 months in 58% new French oak barrels. Only 210 cases were made.


The Wine Advocate scored this 94 points saying "A selection of the best nine barrels of the vintage, the 2016 Pinot Noir Nine Barrels was aged 15 months in 58% new oak. It has a medium ruby color with aromas of spiced cranberry jelly, black cherry jam, shaved nutmeg and cinnamon stick with touches of pencil shavings, leather and smoked meats. Medium-bodied, silky, and intensely flavored, it offers loads of ripe fruits and savory accents. It has a firmer frame of grainy tannins and seamlessly woven freshness, finishing long and dense. This is a powerful Pinot Noir that's drinking beautifully now but will reward a couple more years of bottle age."