2014 Bien Nacido Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
Herby and overripe on the nose, and perhaps a bit too much sour cherry in profile. Absolutely recognisable Pinot Noir style, but it leaves a bitterness that is too dominant for me. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Leading off the reds is the fresh, tight and focused 2014 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido Vineyard (aged 15 months in 20% new French oak), which has excellent vibrancy and cut. It offers pretty strawberry, cherry, rose petal and spice in its medium-bodied, tight and tannic personality, which is also one of the hallmarks of the vineyard. Give bottles a year in the cellar. There are just 27 barrels made.
Chanin's 2014 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido Vineyard is silky and beautifully layered throughout. Sweet red berry fruit and floral notes are pushed forward. Rose petal, blood orange and white pepper develop in the glass, adding brightness and tension to the acid-driven finish. The 35% whole clusters are pretty much buried by the sheer luxuriousness of the fruit. Deceptively medium in body, the Bien Nacido Pinot has a level of intensity that sneaks up on the understated finish. This classy Pinot will drink well for at least a handful of years.