2017 Davis Bynum 'Lindley's Knoll' Russian River Valley, California Pinot Noir

It came from what would become the famed Rochioli Vineyard in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley. Pinot Noir was a relative stranger to the region, but the fickle variety thrived in the unique terroir. As the first to produce single-vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, Bynum was instrumental in bringing prestige to the area.

The Lindley's Knoll Pinot comes from a block of vines growing in clay loam soils at Jane's Vineyard in a neighborhood called the Santa Rosa Plain in the heart of the valley. Warm days enable the fruit to ripen, while the cool nights allow the vines to retain acidity.

Aging in a mix of French and Hungarian oak barrels lends complexity to the cuvee, as the alluring fruit flavors are joined by cedar, toast and tobacco notes. It’s an engaging wine from a Pinot Noir pioneer.