2012 Falstaff Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
The 2012 Pinot Noir Falstaff is the most overtly perfumed, savory wine in the range, the result of a cool micro-climate and the use of 100% whole clusters. The 2012 has closed down a bit since it was bottled, but it should re-emerge in another year or two. While the McDougall Ranch is up-front and powerful, the Falstaff is all about aromatics, acidity and energy. Hints of lavender, mint, sage and crushed flowers offer only a hint of what might develop in bottle.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Bright ruby-red. Vibrant, spice-accented black raspberry and candied cherry on the nose, with lively mineral and floral qualities adding complexity. Sappy and delicate on the palate, displaying sweet raspberry and rose pastille flavors perked up by vibrant minerality. The precise, persistent finish repeats the red fruit notes and shows just a hint of tannins. This graceful pinot has a very nice, light touch but hardly lacks for depth of flavor.
Pale ruby. Very pale rim – very different in looks, flavour and structure from the regular Sonoma Coast blend. Hint of rhubarb and very dry but hugely more ambitious than the regular bottling. Tense – surely whole bunch*? Racy and razor's edge. Long and good fun with masses of fresh fruit. * Yes, consultation of the background information reveals that this was 100% whole cluster and Jamie Kutch notes that this Falstaff vineyard is based on anicent marin sandstone which he claims 'imparts a fantastic minerality that is different from but somwhat reminiscent of Savigny-lès-Beaune'. (JR)
Firm yet beautifully integrated tannins set the stage for Kutch's 2012 Pinot Noir Falstaff. Sage, mint and plum lead to cedar, sweet spices and menthol as the wine opens up in the glass. The 100% whole clusters add an attractive, floral/savory dimension that balance's the wine's natural richness and broad-shouldered personality. Beautiful saline notes linger on the chalky, nuanced finish.