Winemaker Notes
The flagship wine, and perhaps the most consistent in flavor profile from year to year, the 2018 Carneros Pinot Noir is immediately recognizable on the nose thanks to the aroma of sassafras, which is joined by strawberry, black cherry, and a hint of earthiness, perhaps even mushroom. Red fruit leads on the palate, with a slightly floral undertone, and a concentrated, earthy finish. The palate is supported by fine-grained, well-integrated tannin.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Wild raspberries, strawberries, violets and dried earth on the nose. Some chocolate, orange zest and conifer, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with soft, sleek tannins. Juicy and chewy layers of spiced red fruit and mushroom. Delicious, earthy edge at the end. Drink or hold.
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Wine Enthusiast
This is a monstrously structured, powerful and generous wine from the appellation. Thick waves of black cherry and strawberry present as velvety smooth on the palate, accented in black tea, cardamom and a wash of toasted oak.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The medium ruby-purple colored 2018 Carneros Estate Pinot Noir has pretty aromas of crushed cranberries, blueberries, lilac and dried herbs with accents of charcuterie, fragrant earth and bark. Medium-bodied, it floods the mouth with spiced fruits, juicy, finely grainy and with a very long and flavorful finish.
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.