The Russian River Valley appellation is quite large and covers about 150 square miles. There are great variances in temperature and climate in the region, depending on how close your vineyard sits to the cool winds of the Pacific ocean. The best Pinot Noir is grown in the vineyard sites that are exposed to these cool winds and fog, yet still get a perfect kiss of California sun in the afternoon. This brings balance of fruit and earth in the wines made from these sites. This particular vineyard lies in a location where it is not uncommon for the temperature difference to change 40 degrees between day and night, because of this coastal influence. The small vineyard of Petite Abeille, which translates to little bee,  is just a few acres in size and is farmed entirely by Deb Mayo. Every time I speak with her, she seems to be in the vineyard personally tending to each vine herself. This project is her life’s passion and she only made 224 cases this year! This is about 8 barrels of wine and we were very lucky to get any of it.

The 2010 Petite Abeille is absolutely delicious. The wine has a light ruby color with a slight pink rim. The aromatics are powerful and fruit forward with a hint of earth. Just ripened strawberry, black cherry, fresh rose petals, and spice fill the glass along with a slight smell of forest floor and wet leaves. The palate is rich yet silky in texture with ripe red fruit. Notes of strawberry and pomegranate abound with a finish that has a perfect balance of vanilla and cinnamon from her use of 30% new oak. Ideally serve this wine at around 60-65 degrees and enjoy over the next three to five years. This is truly one of the best examples of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir I have ever tasted.