2012 Cristom Pinot Noir Marjorie Vineyard

The 2012 Pinot Noir Marjorie Vineyard is the only vineyard on its own roots planted in 1982 at a low density (1500 vines per hectare). There is phylloxera in the vineyard, so it is gradually being replaced. This vintage is the first that is not entirely from the old vines and contains a single barrel of new vines. The bouquet is quite natural and refined without shortchanging you on fruit: mulberry and red plum, a little orange blossom and a hint of vanilla pod. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, grippy tannin that exhibits lovely red berries infused with balsamic and saline notes. This feels very cohesive in the mouth and I wager that those younger vines have invigorated the older vines to create a complete Pinot Noir that I would rush out and buy if I was not typing this tasting note.