Gary Farrell 2004 Russian River Valley Pinto Noir

15Feb07

Gary Farrell wines are a reliable choice. Although typically priced out of range to be a house wine for the average drinker, wines from this vintner can be counted on for special occasions. This particular bottle is a well-priced superstar wine in my opinion.

My first exposure to Farrell wines was at the Shibuya restaurant inside MGM Grand about a year ago. It was the Pinot Noir but I think it was 2003. This 2004 vintage was no disappointment. Fruity, sophisticated, and hearty for a Pinot at the same time. According to the vinter’s website this wine is aged in 100% French Oak but I could not determine that from its taste. In fact, I presumed it was aged in steel.

The following description is from calwine.com which I think does a fine job describing the integrity and offering of this wine.

The 2004 Gary Farrell Pinot Noir is fully flavored, fruit-focused wines, which emphasize balance and elegance while avoiding high levels of ripeness, extract and alcohol. This style of winemaking is essential in crafting age-worthy wines, and wines exhibiting the silky, sensual qualities often associated with the finest examples of Pinot Noir from our region. This offering shows classic “restraint”, by allowing the fruit to capture center-stage rather than heavy-handed winemaking. Wonderful aromas of raspberry and violets lead to equally compelling strawberry and dark berry flavors, which are enhanced (but never over-powered) by a perfect compliment of enriching, slightly toasty oak. The succulent fruit components and wonderful balancing acidity ensure excellent compatibility with a wide range of foods, including spicy fish, lamb or veal dishes.

This wine on Gary Farrell website
This wine on CalWine.com
This wine on wine-club-central.com

Filed under: $31-$50, 2004, California Wines, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Two Thumbs Up   |  Leave a Comment