2019 Nue Wilde Russian River Pinot Noir

Region: Russian River Valley < CA

Grapes: Pinot Noir

Winemaker: Ben Herod

Nue Wilde is the new project from our friend Ben, formerly of Oro en Paz.  He's sourcing fruit from organic vineyards and making wine in an old-school, hands off fashion.  Like this Pinot Noir, which is classic Russian River Valley through and through. 

Fruit comes from the Goldridge Loam vineyard, and sees very little "winemaking", so the character of this special California terroir shines brightly.  You get the big, juicy, borderline jammy fruit for which this region is known, but Ben's early picking and restraint in the cellar results in a balanced, enjoyable glass rather than the boozy, overblown ones that often emerge from this hot region.  Fruit-forward Sonoma Pinot lovers, here's your clean swap!