2023 Martaella Vineyard Pinot Noir

HOLD
DRINK
2026-2033 OPTIMAL DRINKING WINDOW
Russian River Valley Martaella Vineyard
Past Release

Winemakers Notes

Our third vintage from the Martaella Vineyard illustrates the dark and brooding nature of the Russian River Valley terroir. The nose is an enticing play between Earl Grey […]

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Technical Notes

TA 0.57g/100mL
pH 3.5
Alc. 13.80%
Barrel Description 53% New, 47% 1 yr.
Barrel Aged 15 months
Technical Notes PDF

Winemakers Notes

Our third vintage from the Martaella Vineyard illustrates the dark and brooding nature of the Russian River Valley terroir. The nose is an enticing play between Earl Grey tea and ripe blueberry with subtle leather notes. Hints of cloves and orange zest balance the flavors of black cherry and dark plum. Planted to a higher density vine spacing, this concentrated wine delivers a lingering, mouth-coating finish. – Jessica Gilmore, Associate Winemaker

Harvest Notes

We experienced a welcome sense of normality in 2023, after tumultuous weather patterns during previous growing seasons, including drought conditions, heat events, and hail. This vintage began auspiciously with historical average rainfall and modest temperatures at the start of bud break. Ample sunshine and early heat resulted in even growth of the canopies, creating uniformity and balance as the vines entered the flowering cycle. While it was similarly cool at the outset of 2011, the 2023 heat units built slowly, and the weather was ideal by May. The flowering period was quick, and the fruit set bountiful. The weather was perfect in June and July, with a few heat spikes that kept the plants healthy and sustained. Mid-season crop adjustments were necessary to ensure good vine balance as veraison approached. With the cooler start to the vintage and the normal fog pattern of August, the ripening cycle slowed, and the crop achieved ideal hang time for tannin development at modest sugars. Across the board, the wines exhibit terrific purity of character with excellent tannin resolution. While hot and dry years can create wines of shocking intensity, these cooler vintages showcase the elegant style of Williams Selyem.

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Reviews & Scores

95 Points

Wine Spectator

Delivers a delicious gush of boysenberry, mulberry and blackberry preserves that keeps pace thanks to its juicy energy. Big brushstrokes of anise and apple wood on the finish add to the flattering profile. Best from 2026 through 2036. - James Molesworth

96 Points

Jeb Dunnuck

Pouring a dark ruby red hue, the 2023 Pinot Noir Martealla Vineyard is deep with notes of dark wet stones, Amarena cherries, pine, smoky incense, and lavender. The palate is structured, with well-defined, ripe tannins, angular, mouthwatering, fresh acidity, and a balanced, long finish. It has broader shoulders but remains chiseled, with compact tension. Drink 2026-2046.

94 Points

Wine Enthusiast

Dramatic aromas of black cherry, raspberry and cinnamon stick jump from the glass on the nose of this Pinot. The palate is seamlessly integrated, with rich, supple tannin, juicy orange peel acidity and flavors of berry pie, crushed cherry and baking spices. Yummy now, this will get better with a bit of patience. - Tom R. Capo

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