2013 Alpine Hillside Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
Not made since 2006 and described by Kevin as the ultimate expression of the vineyard, the 2013 Pinot Noir Alpine Hillside Vineyard was a cellar selection (done blind) that ended up coming all from the same block of steep, east-facing vines. It has an almost Horseshoe like level of minerality in its gunpowder, flinty minerality, dusty soil, dried roses, and sweet red fruit aromas and flavors. Fresh, vibrant and weightless, yet with rocking depth and texture, it's a serious wine that tastes like the Alpine Vineyard Pinot Noir on steroids. It has more fruit and depth than the straight Alpine release, so its actually more enjoyable today, yet will age even better.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2013 Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard Hillside is endowed with a real sense of vertical lift. Beams of tannin give the 2013 much of its energy and overall tension. Dark cherry, plum, smoke, graphite, mint, lavender and spices are all super-expressive, with considerable aromatic intensity added by the inclusion of 100% whole clusters. This powerful yet sleek Pinot won't be ready to drink for a number of years, but it is compelling, even today.
40% slope. Real richness on the nose and intensity on the palate without high alcohol. Maybe cuts off a little fast because it was bottled so recently. Clearly will be a great wine. (JR)
The 2013 Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard Hillside is a big step up from the straight Alpine. Here the fruit is less overt, while floral and mineral notes take on greater prominence. Voluptuous and totally spherical, the 2013 hits all the right notes. The huge, structured finish suggests the 2013 is going to need quite a bit of bottle age to fully come together. This is one of the most striking, utterly magnificent wines I have tasted from Rhys. Tasted next to the Alpine Vineyard, the Hillside bottling offers a touch more minerality and structure. Re-tasted: October 2014.