WINEMAKER’S NOTES:
Pinot Noir Old Vines comes from Wadenswil clone vines planted in 1970, and it was matured in barrel for 20 months. Medium garnet, it has a distinct mineral character, with tones of flint and iodine complementing spicy cranberry and blackberry preserves. The palate is silky and layered, with intense, dark red fruit and a very long, flavorful finish. It’s got some inherent power that will allow it to develop well in bottle.
TASTING NOTES:
The 2021 Pinot Noir Old Vines comes from the Maresh Vineyard, from vines that were planted in 1970, and has a singular expression with detailed, spicy accents reminiscent of bitters or amaro. “You only get those high-toned essences if you pick al dente,” winemaker Jim Maresh explains. “It’s easy to volatilize all that away.” The Old Vines has a medium ruby color and arresting aromas of orange bitters, mossy bark and tobacco leaves complementing a deep core of pomegranate, rhubarb and cranberry. The light-bodied palate offers remarkably pure, detailed flavors. It has velvety tannins, seamless freshness and a very long finish with a flourish of spicy accents.
– Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 98 pts.