MacMurray Pinot Noir Russian River Valley: A Guide to This Unique and Beloved Pinot Noir

For any wine enthusiast, the name MacMurray Pinot Noir would ring familiar. The infamous wine, which hails from the picturesque vineyards of the Russian River Valley in California is well known for its history, flavor, and unique, region-specific flavor profile.

Now available at The Liquor Store in Jackson, WY, the MacMurray Pinot Noir is a must-try because each bottle is known for its smoothness and depth.

The Story Behind MacMurray Estate Vineyards

MacMurray Estate Vineyards has a rich history that dates back to the 1850s. Originally, the land was a farmstead established by Colonel Hugh Porter, a California pioneer and soldier in the Bear Flag Revolt and the Porter family farmed this land for three generations along the Russian River.

In 1941, Hollywood actor Fred MacMurray purchased the property. An avid fly fisherman, he intended to use the property as a retreat from city life and took great pains to renovate the property. Eventually, he settled in the main ranch house, where he raised his family, where he also built barns and auxiliary buildings to support his diversified farming program, which supplied surplus fruits and vegetables to the Army during wartime.

The ranch remained a working cattle ranch under MacMurray until his passing in 1991. It wasn't until 1996, when the Gallo family purchased the property that it was transformed into a world-class Pinot Noir vineyard, highlighting the spectacular winegrowing terroir of the Russian River Valley. They also began a restoration of MacMurray Ranch, with an eye toward honoring its history, preserving its buildings and furnishings, and reinstating its spirit.

Today, MacMurray Estate Vineyards encompasses estate vineyards throughout the Russian River Valley and California's Central Coast. Their collection of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris wines reflects their extraordinarily cool-climate vineyards in regions renowned for Pinot Noir winegrowing. The original buildings have been faithfully restored, and the 1,500-acre property is home to old-growth oaks, redwood trees, and indigenous wildlife.

Fred MacMurray's daughter, Kate MacMurray, retains an indelible tie to the estate, helping to share the heritage of the namesake vineyard, historic property, and celebrated wine.

Russian River Valley: The Ideal Home for Pinot Noir

At the heart of MacMurray Estate Vineyards' success lies the Russian River Valley. Located in Sonoma County, this region is renowned for its remarkable growing conditions for Pinot Noir, where the climate plays a leading role in shaping the wine's distinctive flavor. Each morning, the valley is blanketed by a cool fog that rolls in from the Pacific Ocean, slowly lifting as the day progresses. By afternoon, the vineyards bask in the sun, allowing the grapes to warm up just enough to develop deep, concentrated flavors.

This daily temperature fluctuation creates an ideal rhythm for grape growth, slowing down the ripening process to preserve acidity while letting the flavors mature fully. Pinot Noir grapes respond especially well to these conditions, developing a balance of bright fruitiness and subtle minerality unique to this valley. The soil here, a mix of clay and loam, is another key component, offering a well-draining yet nutrient-rich environment that encourages deep root growth and enhances the complexity of the wine. Season after season, this natural cycle produces MacMurray Estate Pinot Noir with layers of rich cherry, berry, and earthy notes---qualities that make Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs highly sought-after by wine lovers worldwide.

Tasting Notes: What to Expect from MacMurray Estate Pinot Noir

MacMurray Estate Pinot Noir immediately catches the eye with its deep, ruby hue. Swirling the glass releases a bouquet that is layered. Floral notes of lavender blend with the sweetness of boysenberry, underpinned by subtle, earthy aromas reminiscent of the forest floor, which reflects the lush landscape of the Russian River Valley.

On the palate, this Pinot Noir offers a diverse mix of flavors. Dark cherry takes center stage, lending the wine a luxurious, fruit-forward profile, complemented by a burst of pomegranate that adds brightness. A hint of vanilla weaves through, a soft touch that reflects the influence of careful barrel aging. The oak introduces a faint hint of spice, enhancing the warmth of the finish. The wine's texture is smooth and velvety, with a balanced structure of tannins and acidity that brings vibrancy without overpowering.

How MacMurray Estate Vineyards Makes Their Pinot Noir

MacMurray Estate Vineyards approaches winemaking with a deep respect for both the environment and the unique character of the Russian River Valley. Their process begins in the vineyard, where sustainable farming practices are carefully implemented to preserve the land's health and promote biodiversity. Every vine is tended to with precision, ensuring that the specific conditions of each plot---soil type, elevation, and sun exposure---are reflected in the grapes' character.

When harvest season arrives, grapes are handpicked at peak ripeness. This hands-on method allows the winemaking team to select only the finest fruit, ensuring that each grape is handled gently to maintain the quality and natural acidity essential to Pinot Noir. The MacMurray team monitors the fermentation process on a lot-by-lot basis, taking note of unique qualities in each vineyard block. This careful observation allows them to enhance the subtle variations and bring out the best expression of each vintage.

The wine is then aged in a selection of oak barrels sourced from different regions, including France, the United States, and Hungary. These barrels are chosen to add delicate layers of flavor---subtle spice, a hint of vanilla---without overpowering the wine's natural fruit notes. By the end of the aging process, the wine achieves a balance that speaks to both the skill of MacMurray's winemaking team and the rich character of the Russian River Valley.

Perfect Pairings for MacMurray Estate Vineyards Pinot Noir

MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir is a versatile companion to many dishes, with its balanced structure and rich layers of fruit making it an ideal choice for both simple and more complex pairings. The wine's smooth tannins, lively acidity, and notes of dark cherry and pomegranate give it a natural affinity for dishes that balance savory, earthy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it especially fitting for fall and winter meals.

For a classic pairing, grilled salmon works wonderfully. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the fish, while its fruit-forward character complements the natural sweetness of salmon. Add a touch of herb butter or a side of roasted root vegetables, and the pairing reaches a new level.

Another fantastic match is roasted duck or game birds like quail. Duck's savory, slightly fatty texture pairs beautifully with the wine's berry notes and soft tannins. Add a reduction sauce with hints of cherry or orange, and the combination becomes even more harmonious. Similarly, mushroom risotto makes for an indulgent pairing, with the earthy flavors of mushrooms drawing out the subtle forest-floor notes in the wine.

For a more relaxed setting, a simple charcuterie board lets MacMurray Pinot Noir shine in an approachable, enjoyable way. The wine's balanced acidity and gentle tannins play well with aged cheeses like Gouda or Comté, while its fruity undertones pair perfectly with salty prosciutto or soppressata. Even a handful of briny olives or a few dried figs brings out different elements in the wine, proving that you don't need an elaborate meal to enjoy it to its fullest.

Reviews and Accolades

MacMurray Estate Vineyards' Pinot Noir has garnered significant acclaim from wine critics and enthusiasts, demonstrating its consistent quality and expression of the Russian River Valley terroir. Notably, the 2013 Russian River Valley Reserve Pinot Noir received a 90-point rating from Wine Spectator in May 2015, highlighting its depth and complexity.

Additionally, the 2017 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir earned an 88-point rating from Wine Enthusiast in March 2020, praised for its sweet oak and juicy palate of cherry, cola, and vanilla.

Shop MacMurray Pinot Noir in Jackson, Wyoming

Ready to take home the distinguished taste of MacMurray Pinot Noir? Visit The Liquor Store at 115 Buffalo Way in Jackson, where our knowledgeable staff can guide you through our carefully curated wine selection. This wine is great for a cozy dinner or hosting a gathering.

Call us at 307-733-4466 for availability, or email info@wineliquorbeer.com to inquire about our current MacMurray Pinot Noir inventory. Our central location makes us easily accessible from anywhere in Jackson Hole, and we pride ourselves on offering expert wine advice tailored to our mountain community's sophisticated palate.