Russian River Valley is pretty laid-back and casual as far as wine regions go. That’s what I like best about visiting this enclave in Northern Sonoma County. No pretentious know-it-alls, not a lot of flash and show… winemakers are approachable and very down-to-earth and the locals are friendly and quick to start conversations with strangers.
By happenstance, I discovered Lynmar Estate and now it’s one of my all-time favorite tasting room stops in the northern Sonoma wine country. Contemporary and chic, Lynmar Estate has an ethereal draw the minute you pass through the front gates.
Lynmar Estate is comprised of 70 rolling acres of 15 clones of Pinot Noir, four clones of Chardonnay, and a block of Syrah, The original vines are more than 40 years old, and provided early grape stock to noted Russian River Valley Pinot Noir wine makers Merry Edwards and Tony Soter.
Sit, sip and swirl a glass of the 2011 Russian River Chardonnay on the spacious outdoor patio overlooking the Lynmar Estate vineyards. Rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast, the estate Chardonnay is light straw in color with a fresh pineapple crush and orange blossom nose. The mid-palate is bright and acidic with notes of green apple and stone fruit. An ideal summer wine, aka, porch pounder.
Much to my surprise, Lynmar Estate handcrafts 16 Pinot Noir wines. The 2011 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is a ruby-red blend of five vineyards, bursting with bright bing cherry, red apple skin, cranberry and raspberry, with a black tea and green peppercorn tannic finish. Treat yourself to the sumptuous 2011 Quail Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir, with deep cherry cola, raspberry and sandalwood aromas with a rich boysenberry and plum finish.
For a truly memorable experience, wine and food pairings can be arranged in advance at Lynmar Estate. www.lynmarestate.com
the drunken cyclist says
I have never been to Lynmar, but it is definitely on the short list now! Thanks for the review.