Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, 2020

Bart here. Last night, Katie came by the house after a day at the farm to see if I had anything fun to open.  It was the night before Veterans Day and St. Martins of Tours Day (patron Saint of vintners and wine drinkers!), so I decided to pull an American Pinot Noir I have been waiting to try.  I pulled a 2020 Goldeneye Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley.

We had been outdoors all day, working at the farm and watching deer, so we were a little fatigued and likely not ready for this wine.  It caught us both unprepared with tart, almost astringent notes.  We both had questioning, almost surprised looks, and not in a good way.  Even my wife, who is slower to judge, asked, “Why did you pick this wine?” After the second and third tastes, our nose focused, and our palates settled down.  The earthiness of the wine began to evolve out of the prairie grass dust that filled our nostrils all afternoon.  An earthy loam with fresh cherries, blackberries, and plums began to blossom on the nose and palate.   Within a couple of minutes, we all recanted our initial impression and began to appreciate the wine. Our initial impression, however, tainted the overall impression.  We all felt it was probably not worth the higher price point.  

Tonight, my wife prepared supper with Garlic & Herb Tilapia with basil, thyme,and parsley with a new potato medley and a tossed fresh green salad.  The Goldeneye PN had been placed on the Coravin from the night before. After a long day at the office, my mind was likely quieter and more introspective. The wine this time was a completely different experience.  The wine showed bright Bing Cherries, more vibrant blackberries, and ripe plums. The earthy note was moist fresh forest floor.  The flavors were dark plums and light strawberry.  The tannins were soft and balanced with a long pleasing finish.  Seemingly nothing like the night before. The Tilapia with its seasonings blended beautifully with the fruity earthiness of the wine.

A wonderful dinner was a beautiful finish to another Monday. Melissa, my wife, took credit for the pairing, which was masterful! The wine bordered on spectacular this evening.

The real take home message here was the importance of your tasting environment.  Last night, we wanted to try something to post for the Holiday. It was late and we were tired and evidently not mentally ready. This evening, a quiet dinner with my wife was a completely new set of circumstances.   I was looking forward to a glass of wine with dinner, and we clearly found a good one!  I re-learned that before you render an opinion, make sure the situation is right, your mind is in the right place, and you give the situation the time and attention it’s due.  Last night a beer may have been a better choice.  Tonight the 2020 Goldeneye Pinot Nior was the right choice! And yes, I do believe it is worth the price point.