THOMAS GEORGE
THOMAS GEORGE ESTATES:
Established in 2008 when Canadian Tom Baker acquired the winery from esteemed Russian River Valley wine pioneer Davis Bynum. “Our main purpose,” says Baker, “is to produce wines that are the best expression of Russian River Valley [through] principles espoused by the great winemakers of Burgundy.” Accordingly, the estate focuses on single-block Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that are released only when they believe them to be at their apex, typically after spending between two to five years in bottle. “I believe strongly in the need to age wines and only release them when they are ready to drink,”
2016 Thomas George Estate – Chardonnay – Sons and Daughters Ranch
– $39.95 per bottle – 6 or 12 packs
Rich aromas of lemon cake and wet stone lead to mineral notes that coincide with the charming arrival of peach nectar. The flavours and aromatics combine to create a rich and leesy profile, albeit one with a focused edginess. Aged ten months in 67% stainless steel and 33% concrete egg.
2015 Thomas George – Chardonnay Estate
– $54.95 per bottle – 6 or 12 packs
Aged 11 months in (25% new) French oak, this wine is a spitfire, with an entry of startling white pepper lit up by needle-like acidity. Nougat and lemon wedge play off each other amid notes of buttercup, toffee, and lemon bar with a hint of basil. Dynamic and glorious in its balance and reined-in richness.
2015 Thomas George – Pinot Noir Estate
– $64.95 per bottle – 6 or 12 packs
Cinnamon stick, tree bark and baked cranberry nose with notions of underbrush, citrus peel, wild blackberries, Earl Grey tea leaves and classic smoke and cola hints—great layers of ripe fruit, spice and bitters.
2015 Thomas George – Pinot Noir – Baker Ridge Vineyard
– $79.95 per bottle – 6 or 12 packs
Old-vine clones lend gravitas through an earthy perfume of black-peppered pomegranate and sweet tobacco. Bright cherry and spiced red licorice augment the supreme aromatic intensity of roses before this wine’s soil-driven character unites with vivacious acidity and a salty finish.
2015 Thomas George – Pinot Noir – Baker Ridge Vineyard – Backbone Block
– $104.95 per bottle – 6 or 12 packs
An earthy perfume of black-peppered pomegranate and sweet tobacco. Bright cherry and spiced red licorice augment the supreme aromatic intensity of roses before this wine’s soil-driven character unites with vivacious acidity and silky tannins.
