Founded in 1975 by current owner/winemaker Tom Dehlinger, Dehlinger Winery is located in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County. Although they are known for their Pinot Noir, they also make Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.
A portion of the Dehlinger vineyard planted to the Pommard clone in 1982 was first bottled seperately as the High Plains starting in the 1999 vintage. Per Tom Dehlinger, High Plains is a reference to the Clint Eastwood movie High Plains Drifter.
The wine is light in color and almost clear at the edge of the glass. Dark cherries, rhubarb, mineral, baking spice, cloves and forest floor. Exceptional mouth feel and texture. The finish is long and mouth puckering. A gorgeous wine that has aged gracefully.
Dehlinger wines are consistently exceptional and fairly priced. The mailing list is worth the wait.
My rating: 93 points.