GARY FARRELL
“Russian River Selection”
Russian River AVA
Sonoma County
2005
Visual: Gold-yellow
Nose: Melon, pear, citrus and pineapple, complex earthy and minerally nuances.
Mouth: Super silky, round, clean, and a hint of sweetness. The fruit flavors are rich and concentrated, and seamless from start to finish, with a bit of creme caramel at the end.
Overall impression: Great flavors in this wine, very well made and balanced, and has an individual character (maybe created by the distinctive earthiness). This wine was also a favorite for many, however, it did not the structure or complexity of the HDV, a hard act to follow.
Stats: 100% French oak, but ⅓ of the wine in new, ⅓ in 1 year old, and ⅓ in 2 year old barrels; 5500 cases; $32; My score: 91-92