2011 Rhys Alesia Pinot Noir Alder Springs
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Tasting notes
More evolved and supple than the 2012, as well as less intense, the 2011 Alesia Pinot Noir Alder Springs Vineyard has lots of spice, forest floor, sweet cherries, charred earth and hints of green to go with a medium-bodied, balanced, easy-drinking style on the palate. Possessing plenty of classical Pinot Noir character, it's a delicious, well-made effort that shines in this difficult vintage. Don't push the aging curve here and drink this over the coming couple of years.
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Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2011 Pinot Noir Alder Springs presents an attractive combination of juiciness tempered by the cool personality of the year. Dark cherries, plums, licorice, leather, sage and rosemary all take shape nicely in the glass. The finish is huge and powerful, with some slightly angular contours that might soften with more time in bottle. The 2011 was made with 35% whole clusters.
(made with 40% whole clusters): Ruby-red. Black raspberry, cherry and sassafras on the pungent nose. Fleshy and expansive, offering powerful dark berry and bitter cherry flavors and a note of candied rose. Picks up spiciness with air and closes on a smoky note, with very good thrust and persistence.