Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All VintagesA bit richer and a slightly fuller, more densely filled wine than its maker’s Ten Degrees bottling of the same year, the Gowan Creek Pinot moves ever so slightly to the head of the 2019 Golden eye class. It is fully fruited and rife with juicy, optimally ripened black cherries, and, even though a fairly big wine, it is nicely balanced and never close to being heavy-footed. It, too, is firmed by very fine, near-velvety tannins that are never too pushy or tough, but, of the two wines, it is the one whose structure should carry it forward for a few extra years of positive development should one not be understandably tempted to drink it up in the shorter term.
In 1997, Goldeneye harvested its first grapes, a modest seven tons of estate fruit, yielding 375 cases of wine. After a decade of research, planning and experimentation, Goldeneye's inaugural vintage was announced in March of 2000. By focusing on the careful cultivation of its estate vineyards, Goldeneye has been able to grow, while still remaining true to its philosophy of being a small, quality-driven winery.
Founded on a commitment to quality, Goldeneye brings the tradition of viticultural excellence established by Duckhorn Vineyards in the Napa Valley to the Pinot Noirs of the Anderson Valley. With each new vintage, Goldeneye continues its evolution toward becoming one of the world's premier producers of Pinot Noir.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.