2014 Paul Lato Pinot Noir The Contender Drum Canyon Vineyard
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Eclipsing the seriously good 2013, the 2014 Pinot Noir The Contender Drum Canyon Vineyard comes from Swan and Calera clones and spent 15 months in 75% new French oak. More structured and tannic (Paul says it's the Gevrey of the lineup), with a darker edge to its black raspberry, blackberry, underbrush, red plum and spice aromas and flavors, this beauty hits the palate with a big mouth full of fruit, a layered textured and a great finish. Give it a year or two and enjoy through 2026.
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Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
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The 2014 Pinot Noir The Contender Drum Canyon Vineyard, from Dierberg, is superb. Deep, powerful, but also translucent, the 2014 exudes class. Sweet red cherry, blueberry, mint, exotic spices and sweet floral notes abound. Silky tannins wrap around the voluptuous, racy finish. This is fabulous stuff.