Our last vintage of this precious vineyard gem. I called it a “California Grand Cru” way back when and the Prince of Pinot, Rusty Gaffney, agreed in one of his articles some time ago… Our first vintage of this wine was in 2002 and it received a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. It is fitting that this final vintage of the Wiley also garnered a Double Gold at the Mendocino County Fair. Thanks to all the “home boys” of the Anderson Valley.

The 2018 vines were 38 years old at that time and are clones of Pommard #5 and Mount Eden (Romanee Conti) #37.

The wine historically, in our portfolio, varied from vintage to vintage by being light and feminine to dark and deep, always being a favorite of mine. I was lucky to have had access to the fruit of this fine vineyard selection. Thank you Steve Tylicki, the vineyard manager back then, for introducing me to Brad Wiley, the vineyard owner. And yes, thank you Brad, even though you
are very difficult to work with, the wine we made from it outshined all the negatives! I had to have the last word on this……! LOL
C’est la vie, that’s life…

Tasting notes
Color of medium garnet with a rich brightness to it. A floral and spice bouquet, florals of sweet red fruits, rose, hibiscus. Thyme, green and black tea and subtle sandalwood fill in the spice
components of the aromatics. Complex scents, let your imagination take you there…. The palate bursts forth with red fruits and well integrated oak, vibrant acidity, red raspberry, pomegranate, red currant flavors, with tea components, Kirsch like on the back of the palate. Tannins are a bit like tangerine rind, on the softer side of citrus, long lush finish. I believe it will age gracefully, but is drinking beautifully now. As always, enjoy with a clove or anise (or both) brined duck breast,

Harvest Date: October 4, 2018
PH 3.43
TA 6.4gr/L
Alcohol: 13.9%
Unfined and Unfiltered
Bottled: May 29, 2000

150 cases produced.

Double Gold medal, 2022 Mendocino County Fair

Gold medal, 2022 Great American International Wine Competition.

View Review by The Nittany Epicurean