Twomey Cellars: 2018 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

What is this wine?

The 2018 Twomey Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley in Sonoma, CA shows the classic elegance of the region. This pale to medium ruby colored wine is developing, with an aromatic nose of violet, acacia, red cherry, mushroom, leather, earth, raspberry, and cranberry.

On the palate, the wine leans more earthy and savory, with red cherry and soft tobacco replacing the floral highlights of the nose. Dry and high in acidity with medium alcohol, it carries medium body, medium+ intensity, and a medium+ finish. This is a balanced, structured Pinot showing regional typicity and is best consumed now, with no further aging needed.

Full Tasting Note

Winemaking Information (Twomey PDF here)

  • Wine Name: Twomey Pinot Noir 2018

  • Varietal content: Pinot Noir, 34% whole cluster

  • Vineyard location: Russian River Valley, Sonoma, CA

  • Vineyard attributes: Coastal influence, foggy mornings, loamy soils

  • Aging: 100% French oak, 23% new

Appearance: Pale-Medium Ruby

Nose:

  • Intensity: Medium+

  • Aromas: Violet, acacia, red cherry, mushroom, leather, tobacco, raspberry, cranberry

  • Development: Developing

Palate:

  • Flavors:

    • Red cherry, raspberry, cranberry

    • Tertiary: Mushroom, leather, tobacco, earth

  • Acidity: High

  • Sweetness: Dry

  • Alcohol: Medium (13.7%)

  • Body: Medium

  • Intensity: Medium+

  • Finish: Medium+

Conclusions:

  • Quality: Very Good

  • Drink time: Drink now, not suitable for further aging

Best ways to use this wine

Food pairings:

  • Pasta Bolognese, or similarly meaty ragu

  • Manchego

  • Chocolate not more than 75% dark

Flights and tasting events: