In the heart of the Russian River Valley, the Alberigi Vineyard, sourced exclusively by Radio-Coteau and farmed organically, lies on a stretch of Vine Hill Road renowned for its Goldridge soils. Notoriously composed yet powerful, Alberigi expresses the purity of this special region. Fermented with 20% whole-cluster inclusion, and aged 16 months in a third tight-grained new French oak, the 2017 is a spicy vintage of Alberigi.
A more earth-driven expression of Russian River Valley, the 2017 Alberigi Pinot Noir highlights the dynamic range of this distinct region. The initial bouquet of fresh black cherry, strawberry compote, and ripe Mission fig gives way to warm elements of cinnamon and nutmeg, with a tinge of anise. Juxtaposed against the fruit and spice are earthen aromas of humus and forest floor that feel comfortably familiar. A touch of vanilla is playfully interspersed amongst well-integrated tannins and a silky, round mouthfeel.
“Radio-Coteau’s 2017 Pinot Noir Alberigi shows a more focused, tense expression of the Russian River Valley. Beams of tannin and bright acids give the wine much of its distinctive shape. Lavender, rose petal, mint and spice notes all develop in the glass, but it is the wine’s translucent energy that stands out most. I very much like the sense of vibrancy here.”
–Antonio Galloni