2013 Falstaff Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
This is Jamie Kutch's latest picked, coolest vineyard, cooler than burgundy. A little darker than the Sonoma Coast, in both colour and aroma, marginally darker fruiter but also more intense. This still has Kutch's hallmark fruit purity but also a fine peppery, dusty quality (dusty in a positive, more stony sense). And more savoury again on the palate, as if you can taste the stems even though they are not in the least leafy or herbaceous. They give a sort woody character that is not oaky. Silky initially with firmer, nicely dry tannins on the finish. Beautifully fresh and refined but easily overwhelmed at the table – needs careful matching. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Rose petals, mint, spices and sweet red berries are all laced together in the 2013 Pinot Noir Falstaff Vineyard. This is the most lifted and aromatic of the wines in this range. The 2013 is intensely saline, lifted and perfumed. It will appeal most to readers who enjoy aromatic, mid-weight Pinots. The 2013 is all about precision and nuance. It is also a bit light, even within the context of this style.
Vines planted in 2001 with mixed Dijon clones. 580 ft elevation. 8.5 miles from the Pacific. Just 350 cases produced of this, all aged in used French oak. Like all the rest, aged on lees for 10 months. Pale ruby. Meaty, savoury nose with real life to it. Some balsam notes too. Then a hint of both mushrooms and violets. Complex burgundian notes with a light gaminess. Should go well with the pheasant casserole we are planning to eat tonight. Racy with lovely balance. Quite marked acidity. This would also go beautifully with fuller fish dishes. A tightrope is walked successfully. Not skinny and with a very gentle finish. Not so unlike many a fine 2013 Côte de Beaune wine. (JR)