This required a good 45 minutes of air to really get rolling but when it did open, the aromas were fresh, indeed even bright with a seductive nose of enveloping spicy and earthy black pinot fruit that complements to perfection the textured, serious and impressive deep full-bodied flavors that completely drench the palate with extract such that the tannins are rendered almost invisible. The abundant sap confers a very suave character to the balanced and equally long finish and the overall impression is a powerful yet focused wine of harmony and grace. I especially like the interplay of tannin, acidity and fruit and this should be capable of aging for several decades yet, with sufficient air, be approachable young if desired. Tasted twice from bottle with consistent notes.
Allen Meadows - Score: 93 (2011 December)
This required a good 45 minutes of air to really get rolling but when it did open, the aromas were fresh, indeed even bright with a seductive nose of enveloping spicy and earthy black pinot fruit that complements to perfection the textured, serious and impressive deep full-bodied flavors that completely drench the palate with extract such that the tannins are rendered almost invisible. The abundant sap confers a very suave character to the balanced and equally long finish and the overall impression is a powerful yet focused wine of harmony and grace. I especially like the interplay of tannin, acidity and fruit and this should be capable of aging for several decades yet, with sufficient air, be approachable young if desired. Tasted twice from bottle with consistent notes.