DuMol make some of the best and most sought-after Pinot Noirs from the Russian River Valley and California. Limited. 96 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Coming from all Goldridge soils, the Dumol 2023 Pinot Noir Ryan is from Martini and Calera selections and incorporates 20% whole clusters. Its herbaceous character leans toward a slightly more rustic edge, the nose opening to notes of ripe cherries, mossy earth, and crushed flowers. Medium to full-bodied, the palate takes on more concentration and has a lovely richness, ripe tannins, and classic Russian River character with a hint of warmth. Drink 2026-2040... ...Late last year, Andy Smith handed over the winemaking portion of his title to Jenna Davis. Jenna has been with the winery for over ten years, joining as a harvest intern in 2014 and working up to assistant winemaker. Andy retains his roles as partner and winegrower at DuMOL but was ready to pass the torch to the next generation in the winery’s legacy. The 2023s for this report were tasted in Sonoma with Andy and Jenna, as they have been for all three years of my coverage. Earning top marks for what this vintage has to offer, across the range the wines capture freshness and retain the focused concentration that gives them serious potential for longevity." 95 Points Robert Parker: "The DuMol 2023 Pinot Noir Ryan comes mainly from vines planted in 1984 in the Dutton-Widdoes Vineyard, plus 20% from the Dutton-Jentoft Vineyard, planted in 2007. Grapes were harvested on October 2 and 5, and the wine was matured for 15 months in 34% new French oak. The nose is bursting with pure scents of pomegranate, blackberries, mossy bark, cedar and pipe tobacco. The full-bodied palate is sapid and spicy! Its intense, expressive flavors are structured by chalky tannins and vibrant acidity, and it has a long, layered finish. It unfolded dramatically for several days after being opened and will benefit from time in the cellar. 1,225 cases were made." Winemaker Notes: Our new vintage of Jentoft Vineyard Ryan Pinot Noir is highly evocative of this steep hillside site high in the coastal mountains surrounded by the forest. To me, it represents the essence of coastal Russian River Pinot Noir: intensity, vibrancy, deeply pitched fruits with pulsating acidity and an incredible length of flavor.
WARNING: DRINKING DISTILLED SPIRITS, BEER, COOLERS, WINE AND OTHER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY INCREASE CANCER RISK, AND, DURING PREGNANCY, CAN CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS.