2021 Pahlmeyer Wayfarer Vineyard Pinot Noir Mother Rock
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The 2021 Pinot Noir Mother Rock is fabulous. Rich and explosive, with stunning inner sweetness and perfume, the 2021 is exceptionally beautiful. Dark red/purplish berry fruit, rose petal, lavender, spice, blood orange and crushed rocks abound. A touch of whole cluster savoriness adds attractive aromatic presence. This deep, intensely mineral Pinot is compelling.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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From the Mt. Eden and Dijon 777 clones, the 2021 Pinot Noir Mother Rock is lifted with mineral aromas of flinty gravel, toasted pine, wild cherry, and fresh flowers. Medium to full-bodied, it has more tension on the palate, which is balanced with power that drives forward its notes of black raspberry, fresh herbs, and a touch of iron richness. It’s long on the palate and will need a few years in bottle. Drink 2025-2040.
The 2021 Pinot Noir Mother Rock is complex and expressive. It comes from east-facing Mt. Eden and 777 selection vines and was vinified using 15% whole clusters. Proprietor Cleo Pahlmeyer and winemaker Todd Kohn note that most of the wines in the Wayfarer portfolio are based on destemmed fruit, "but in this vintage, a touch more worked here." It takes some coaxing to release its aromas of strawberry and raspberry jam, shiitake, forest floor and wafts of cocoa. The palate is supple and mouthwatering with generous berry and spice layers, and the flavorful, juicy finish drives you to take another taste.