Introduction
The 2022 Brick & Mortar Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley showcases the elegance and purity of California’s cool-climate Pinot Noir. Anderson Valley’s unique combination of coastal influences, fog, and ideal diurnal swings allows for the development of nuanced, complex flavors in Pinot Noir, and Brick & Mortar’s minimal intervention approach further emphasizes these characteristics in a well-balanced, expressive wine.

Terrior
Situated in Mendocino’s Anderson Valley, the vineyards enjoy cooling ocean breezes and fog that keep the temperature moderate, even during warm days. The area’s complex soils, a mix of gravel, clay, and loam, lend both minerality and structure to the wine, with low fertility supporting small, concentrated fruit for vibrant, balanced flavors.

Appearance
Brilliant medium ruby with slight purple reflections, highlighting its youthful vibrancy.

Nose
The nose is elegant and aromatic, featuring notes of ripe red cherries, raspberry, and cranberry, with hints of wild strawberry. Subtle earthy undertones, forest floor, rose petals, and a touch of clove and baking spice add complexity and intrigue.

Palate
Medium-bodied and smooth, this Pinot Noir offers fresh red fruit flavors, led by cherry and raspberry, that are complemented by layers of earthy spice and a hint of minerality. The wine’s refined tannins and balanced acidity create a lively, silky texture on the palate, carrying through to reveal more subtle notes of cola and floral hints.

Finish
The finish is long and polished, with lingering red berry and subtle earthy undertones, showcasing the wine’s elegance and Anderson Valley’s terroir.

Overall Impression
The 2022 Brick & Mortar Pinot Noir captures the essence of cool-climate Pinot Noir with its layered, fruit-forward profile balanced by minerality and earthy complexity. Bright and approachable now, it will also benefit from short-term cellaring to further enhance its depth and elegance.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.9%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Brick & Mortar
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California
Grape Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Dry Red
Winemaking Techniques: Small-batch fermentation with native yeast, aged in neutral French oak to preserve freshness and varietal purity
Pack Size: 750 ml bottle
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork