2023 Cristom Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
The 2023 Pinot Noir Mt. Jefferson Cuvee is 77% estate fruit, sourced from 250 to 800 feet in elevation. It captures the character of the Eola-Amity Hills in this vintage, overdelivering with notes of ripe cherries, leather, dark spices, and stony persistence. The tannins are ripe and chalky, the acidity is balanced, and the length is notable. Tasted twice, the palate has a plush texture and a graceful yet warming feel. This is the calling card of the estate and a great value. Drink 2025-2035. The wines for this report were tasted at the winery in the Eola-Amity Hills with winemaker Daniel Estrin. Daniel joined the team in 2019, following his work with Ted Lemon at Littorai, where he began as an intern and worked his way up to assistant winemaker. Although he has certainly taken a page from Ted’s farming and biodynamic practices, the estate is not certified, and they prefer not to work within the proscriptive confines of certification. Since taking over at Cristom, he has been making slight adjustments in élevage, reducing some of the oak usage that was previously employed.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
A blend from a dozen different vineyards, the 2023 Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir comes primarily from estate fruit, plus 23% purchased fruit. It was fermented with 45% whole clusters and matured for 11 months in 26% new French oak. It has savory aromas of olives, tobacco, mushroom and forest floor over a core of red and black cherry and berry fruit. The medium-bodied palate is expressive and detailed with fine, chalky tannins, vibrant acidity and a long, spicy finish. 11,870 cases were made.
The 2023 Pinot Noir Mt. Jefferson Cuvée blends dusty rose, licorice and orange-tinged wild strawberries. Soothingly round and pure in style, it offers crisp red berry fruits and mineral tones complemented by pretty inner florals. Gently tannic and long, the palate leaves a pleasantly chewy sensation and finishes with a tart cranberry twang. As of 2023, the Mt. Jefferson Cuvée uses 77% estate fruit. It is a fantastic value.