2018 Russian River Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
Medium ruby, the 2018 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley opens up with classic red and black cherry fruit accented by touches of rhubarb, fragrant earth, tea leaves and Angostura bitters. The palate is medium-bodied, silky, expansive and spicy, finishing long and juicy. Fruit comes from at least a dozen vineyards across the appellation.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Starting off the Pinot Noirs, the 2018 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley was mostly destemmed and brought up in 31% new French oak. Its ruby/purple hue is followed by a wonderful bouquet of black cherries, darker raspberry, spice, and hints of earth and forest floor. It's a darker, spicy Russian River Valley effort that's medium to full-bodied and has terrific balance, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It shows the purity and class that now defines this estate. It's well worth seeking out and is going to keep for at least a decade. Another estate that has changed their style (for the better, I think), Kosta Browne’s latest 2018s have beautiful purity and elegance as well as richness. They’re certainly in the top handful of wines in this report.
About the producer
Kosta Browne is one of California's most acclaimed wineries, renowned for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that express the character of top vineyard sites across Sonoma and beyond. Combining meticulous sourcing with thoughtful winemaking, the wines offer richness, precision, and remarkable sense of place.