On a fall 2008 excursion to Sonoma, Norma and I found a classy new entrant on the Russian River pinot noir scene, Lynmar Estate Winery. The winery tasting/publicity manager was very helpful in steering me to delicious selections. A few sips was all it took – we joined their wine club on the spot and have cherished every shipment since then. Their 2006 Russian River Valley pinot noir ($40) opens with red berry aromas, followed by dark fruit and mineral flavors. There’s a zippy finish almost like a zinfandel. We recently received a shipment of the 2007 Jenkins pinot noir which was even better.
The Lynmar winery tasting notes describe it as “Aromas truly leap from the glass and immediately captivate, with primary notes of cherry and raspberry, accented with both red and dark fruit elements. There is also is a deft touch of toasty oak which adds spice and complexity, but in no way competes with the intensity of fruit. There is also a hint of cola on the palate…” We can’t argue with that. Unfortunately, only 240 cases were bottled; it appears this wine may not be available to the general public. Better join one of their wine clubs!
Finally there is the Lynmar 2006 Russian River Valley chardonnay ($30). Aromas of grapefruit and honey tangerines are followed by an explosion of honeysuckle, red apple, and pear on the palate. Norma is always searching for the perfect chard, and for her this one comes close … with characteric varietal fruit flavors and not overburdened with oak.
Lynmar Estate Winery, 3909 Frei Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472
Hospitality Salon: (707) 829-3374 x 118 Reservations: (707) 829-3374 x 102
Fax: (707) 829-0902 Email: info@lynmarwinery.com
