Over on the west side lies Anna’s Block, planted in 2001 on a gentle southern slope in the northwest portion of the vineyard. This area is one of Melville's most even-ripening blocks as the rows are planted in a north-south orientation, receiving a consistent exposure to the cold-climate sun. The soil is a well-drained and low nutrient sandy loam, causing the vines to work incredibly hard to survive. This stress, combined with their targeted care and attention, leads Anna’s to produce small clusters and small berries, which equates to concentrated fruit that is exquisitely perfumed and inviting. Planted to two different Dijon clones working well in tandem, Clone 667 is known for producing high-quality wines in Burgundy and brings intense color, structure, depth and ageability, while the earlier ripening Clone 114 offers richness and stuffing. 67% whole cluster.
ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE 95 POINTS - "The 2021 Pinot Noir Anna's Block was vinified with 50% whole clusters and has detailed aromas of cranberry, blackberry, bitter orange, tobacco, oolong tea leaves and wildflowers. The medium-bodied palate is chalky and vibrant with a layered core of earth-laced fruit and a long, pure finish. 648 cases were made."
ANTONIO GALLONI 94 POINTS - "Chad Melville turned out a gorgeous set of wines in 2021. The top bottlings in particular are deeply impressive. As always, the house style in the reds is defined by a considerable amount of stems along with aging in neutral oak. It’s an interesting combination that works well here. Even with a high percentage of whole clusters, the wines are remarkably expressive of their micro-sites."
"The 2021 Pinot Noir Anna's Block is elegant and effusive right out of the gate. Dried flowers, game, tobacco, incense and licorice open first. Deceptive in its mid-weight feel, the 2021 is punchy and super-expressive. Silky tannins extend the ethereal finish nicely."
ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE 95 POINTS - "The 2021 Pinot Noir Anna's Block was vinified with 50% whole clusters and has detailed aromas of cranberry, blackberry, bitter orange, tobacco, oolong tea leaves and wildflowers. The medium-bodied palate is chalky and vibrant with a layered core of earth-laced fruit and a long, pure finish. 648 cases were made."
ANTONIO GALLONI 94 POINTS - "Chad Melville turned out a gorgeous set of wines in 2021. The top bottlings in particular are deeply impressive. As always, the house style in the reds is defined by a considerable amount of stems along with aging in neutral oak. It’s an interesting combination that works well here. Even with a high percentage of whole clusters, the wines are remarkably expressive of their micro-sites."
"The 2021 Pinot Noir Anna's Block is elegant and effusive right out of the gate. Dried flowers, game, tobacco, incense and licorice open first. Deceptive in its mid-weight feel, the 2021 is punchy and super-expressive. Silky tannins extend the ethereal finish nicely."
Overall Rating
0 out of 5 Based on 0 Review
