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Philo Ridge Vineyards

Owner(s) Fred Buonanno, Heather McKelvey
Web site www.philoridge.com
 
Link to this site
Fred Buonanno and Heather McKelvey found their dream property high on a ridge in the Anderson Valley region. They purchased 40+ acres in 1999. Some of the property had been planted in 1976 to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot by the original owner, Vernon Rose, of the now defunct Christine Woods Winery. The couple hired vineyardist Norman Koble to supervise planting of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris on the property. They produce about 1,000 cases of multiple red and white varietals, but plan to eventually feature primarily Pinot Noir. Tasting is by appointment on weekends. Wines may be obtained by phoning 707-489-2303 or contacting the owners through the website.

Reviewed Wines

2006 Philo Ridge Vineyards Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 410 cases, $19. Released February 2010. Sourced from Ferrington Vineyard. Aged 22 months in 50% new French oak barrels and bottle aged for 9 months. · Moderately intense reddish-purple color in the glass. The nose is very floral with notes of forest floor and mint. An elegantly styled wine that is nicely flavored with cherries and spice. A value-play that tastes much better than it smells. Good. Reviewed June 8, 2010 ARTICLE »

2005 Philo Ridge Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

$32. Scheduled to be released soon. · Nice Pinot perfume including mineral-infused red cherries. Dry candy flavors with lively acidity. Needs a little time. Reviewed June 9, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Philo Ridge Vineyards Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., 250 cases, $32. The fruit is sourced primarily from Ferrington Vineyard. Clones 115, 667 and 777. Picked at 23.5º Brix. Slow fermentation in 1-ton open top fermenters, 4 day cold soak, aged 18 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Aged 9 months in bottle before release. · Moderately light in color. The nose is very floral with a green note. Attractive flavors of fresh berries and cherries with a riff of oak. Soft and smooth with supple tannins. Reviewed June 5, 2009 ARTICLE »

2004 Philo Ridge Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

$28. Only a few cases left. · A very nice mature Pinot with secondary aromas of spice, cigar box, and leather. Red fruit driven with a touch of sherry evident. Reviewed June 9, 2008 ARTICLE »