Let's take a drive 2 hours north of San Francisco in Mendocino County and make a stop in Anderson Valley.
Visiting Anderson Valley wineries is like no other experience compared to the famous Napa and Sonoma areas.... You will not find the crowds of tourists and the busy tasting rooms like in the other popular regions. The atmosphere is much more laid back in Anderson Valley.
The climate is influenced by the Pacific Ocean and it is one of the coolest in the state. The wind and fog keeps the acid level of the grapes high, which is particularly beneficial for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling. Anderson Valley gets a little more rain than other regions as well.
The Duckhorn Wine Company family includes numerous other wineries; among them is Goldeneye (golden duck with yellow eyes) that makes exclusively, prime Pinot Noir. This well-balanced, medium-weight wine offers bright acidity and a long, satisfying finish. The aroma is rich and full of dark cherries, nutmeg, caramelized apple, cinnamon, and clove. On the palate, it is full of plum, spice, cherry, strawberry, and vanilla oak layers.
This definitely is a serious Pinot that I especially enjoy with Mercy's exquisite tuna steak served with a peppercorn sauce on a bed of steamed vegetables.
Enjoy it at Mercy, while it is on at a special price of $ 25.00 a glass or $75.00 a bottle during the month of April and based upon availability (it normally retails for $120.00).
Vincent Havard
General Manager
