Black Kite Cellars — Anderson Valley Winery & Tasting Room

Black Kite Cellars is named for the black kite — the dark-plumaged raptor of the Milvus migrans family, whose soaring flight on thermals and aerial agility make it one of the most widely distributed raptors in the world. The black kite's flight above the vineyard declares the estate's elevation and aerial perspective: wine seen from the raptor's soaring viewpoint, the Pacific fog below, the thermal updrafts of the Anderson Valley's late-morning heating. The boutique produces Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley estate and contracted vineyard sources. Wine Advocate has scored Black Kite's Pinot Noir at 91–94 points.