2014 Knox Alexander Pinot Noir

The 2014 Pinot Noir Knox Alexander is distinguished by its intense aromatics and layered, vibrant personality. A wine of focus and tension, the 2014 will benefit from another year or two in bottle, although it is incredibly attractive today. A dollop of whole cluster influence adds tension and aromatic top notes in this super-expressive, impeccably balanced Pinot Noir from Jim Clendenen at Au Bon Climat.

Pale ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Knox Alexander conjures notions of red currants, Bing cherries and violets with touches of mossy bark, wild thyme and tilled soil. Medium-bodied, with a pleasant chew to the texture, the subtle flavors offer lovely purity and an appealing herbal lift on the finish.

Spice, forest floor, cedar and sweet red and sour cherry notes emerge from the 2014 Pinot Noir Knox Alexander, and it's firm, tight and fresh on the palate, with bright acidity. Jim's wines always show a fresh, focused style, and while the wines ages well, they don't gain much breadth or suppleness. Still, it's solid and does very well in the style. I’ve always enjoyed the wines from Jim Clendenen, who’s first vintage in California was in 1978 for Zaca Mesa. These are classic, concentrated, old school-styled wines that are brought up in plenty of new oak. If you’re looking for Red/White Burgundy look-alikes from California, give these a whirl.