Profile: Vintner Gary Farrell launched his namesake brand in 1982, producing just 50 cases of Russian River Pinot Noir that year. With Farrell's experience and talent, the winery grew quickly and is now looked upon as a pioneer in Chardonnay as well as Russian River Pinot. Farrell sold the winery in 2004, but thanks to the winemaking skill of Theresa Heredia, it remains one of the region's favorites among critics. In addition to several Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, Gary Farrell currently produces Zinfandel, Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. |
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2009 Chardonnay, Westside Farms
Varietal/Style: Chardonnay
Origin: Russian River Valley, CA
Vintage: 2008
Winemaker: Theresa Heredia
Rating: 15/20
Retail Price: $38 |
Tasting
Notes:
Fruit for the 2009 Westside Farms comes from a 40-acre vineyard on the banks of the Russian River. Big and well balanced, this is a luscious, distinctly American Chardonnay. Its complex array of aromas includes crisp apple, banana, toasted oak and a hint of anise. A plush wine on the palate, its flavors include apple pie, ripe pear, lemony citrus and a note of baked bread. The finish lingers reasonably long with a closing note of vanilla. Pair it with roast pork and apples, white fish with lemon butter or a white bean stew. It would also work with a simple dessert of nut-flavored biscotti.
Wine of the Week January 14, 2013:
2009 Chardonnay, Westside Farms
Other Gary Farrell wines we have tasted:
2005 Chardonnay, Russian River Selection
2005 Pinot Noir, Russian River Selection
2006 Pinot Noir, Russian River Selection
2006 Sauvignon Blanc, Redwood Ranch
2008 Pinot Noir, Russian River Selection
2009 Chardonnay, Russian River Selection
2009 Pinot Noir, Hallberg Vineyard
2010 Bradford Mountain Vineyard Zinfandel
2010 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard
2010 Pinot Noir, Ramal Vineyard
2010 Pinot Noir, Stiling Vineyard
Address:
10701 Westside Rd.
Healdsburg, CA 95448
707-473-2909
www.garyfarrellwinery.com
[email protected]
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