2019 Aubert Pinot Noir CIX Estate Vineyard

CIX stands for 109, because this was originally called “parcel 109” when Aubert bought it. These Pinot Noir vines were planted in 2006, and the wine was bottled in July 2020. Medium to deep ruby-purple colored, the 2019 Pinot Noir CIX Estate sails out of the glass with Morello cherries, raspberry preserves and rhubarb notes leading to a very earthy undercurrent of mossy tree bark, forest floor and truffles plus an emerging hint of wild blueberries. Full-bodied, rich, plush and dangerously decadent in the mouth, the palate delivers loads of cerebral layers with a very long cinnamon and spice-laced finish.

The 2019 Pinot Noir CIX Vineyard is fleshy and wonderfully deep. Rich red/purplish fruit, spice, licorice and blood orange fill out the layers effortlessly. The 2019 offers plenty of richness while avoiding the more bombastic intensity of years past. (AG)

Ripe red cherries, ripe strawberries, tamarind, ground spice and Mediterranean herbs on the aromatic nose. Such a smooth texture with velvety tannins and full body. Full of fruit and succulent on the palate with baking and cooking spice. Bright minerality and articulate salinity accentuate the red and black fruit, really bringing them to life on the palate. Earthy ground spice. Oolong, too.