Drew 'The Fog-Eater' Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2023

Winemaking

Drew Wines is known for a restrained, fruit-forward approach to Pinot Noir that respects the delicate character of Anderson Valley fruit. The winemaker emphasizes balance and elegance over extraction, allowing the cool-climate nature of the vineyard to speak clearly in the glass.

Tasting Notes

This is a classic cool-climate Pinot Noir: the nose opens with bright red cherry and strawberry, touched by a subtle earthiness and the faint mineral quality that comes from proximity to the Pacific. On the palate, it's silky and refined, with balanced acidity carrying flavors of red berries, a whisper of oak spice, and a crystalline minerality that lingers through the finish. The fine-grained tannins are nearly invisible, letting the wine's delicate fruit character take center stage.

Producer

Drew Wines operates as a small, focused producer in Anderson Valley, dedicated to showcasing the unique potential of Mendocino County's coolest coastal appellation. The winery's commitment to quality over volume and their careful site selection within the valley have earned them a reputation for producing nuanced, age-worthy Pinot Noirs.

Terroir

Anderson Valley, nestled in Mendocino County near the Sonoma border, is one of California's coolest growing regions, shaped by marine influence from the Pacific Ocean just miles away. The valley's benchland and hillside vineyard sites benefit from morning fog that moderates heat and preserves the bright acidity essential to elegant Pinot Noir, while well-drained soils—a mix of volcanic and marine sedimentary compositions—encourage depth without heaviness.

Food Pairings

Try this with roasted salmon with herb butter or pan-seared duck breast with a cherry gastrique; the wine's acidity and red-fruit notes bridge beautifully to both preparations. For something simpler, it pairs wonderfully with a charcuterie board of prosciutto and aged Gouda, or even a well-made beef burger with mushrooms and caramelized onions.