Gary Farrell

A winemaker renowned for beautifully crafted Pinot Noirs, Gary Farrell Winery is an iconic name. The dramatic architecture of the hilltop tasting room enhances the amazing vistas of the Russian River Valley. It was a hike, but well worth it. This was our first stop on "Pinot Noir Day".



Gary Farrell Rochioli Chardonnay 2005
RRV, California - $38
Drink now-2012. Clean, flinty, melon and touch of oak with harmony and balance. Rated 91 points in WS.

Gary Farrell Starr Ridge Chardonnay 2005
RRV, California - $38
Drink now-2011. Floral aromas, lots of depth and complexity. Rated 91 points in WS.

Gary Farrell Westside Farms Chardonnay 2005
RRV, California - $38
Slightly tart, long finish with butter and oak. Brian likes this one. Drink now-2011. Fresh, snappy, elegant with long finish. Rated 91 points in WS.

Gary Farrell Cresta Ridge Chardonnay 2005
RRV, California - $38
This Chardonnay was my favorite. Picked up minerality immediately. More crispness and minerality than Redwood Ranch Sauvignon Blanc (below). From the winemaker: Bursts with aromas of orange blossom, citrus zest and hints of toffee. Luscious, fresh cut green melon, spiced pear, interesting mineral components.

Gary Farrell Redwood Ranch Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Sonoma County, California - $25
new French oak, very citrusy, not grassy. "Bright, forward aromas of grapefruit, gooseberry, lime and melon. Generous flavors, richness on mid-palate, never strays from crisp refreshing acidity. Rated 91 points in WS.



Gary Farrell Sonoma County Merlot 2003
RRV, California - $32
Picked up the mint and cedar aromas. Very interesting. From the winemaker: Complex aromas of blackberry, chocolate-cherry, mint and cedar. Juicy expressions of wild berry fruit, cassis and green peppercorn.

Gary Farrell Collins Vineyard Zinfandel 2005
RRV, California - $40
Notable nose. Cranberry, very tart, really needs decanting for a few hours. Will be prime in 2011-2013.

Gary Farrell Starr Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005
RRV, California 2005
Very good, but needs more time to develop in bottle.

Gary Farrell Carneros Ramal Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005
RRV, California - $50
Very good. Beautiful now, but can age up to 12 years for greatness.

Gary Farrell Santa Barbara Bien Nacido Pinot Noir 2005
Santa Barbara County, California - $50
Favorite Pinot from the tasting. Pretty aromas & silky, elegant tannins. Nose of raspberry, black cherry with hint of spice. Fine, rich and voluptuous textures. Decant, cellar up to 10 years. Rated 87 points in WS.



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