2010 Ojai Pinot Noir Bien Nacido Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2010 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido sees a touch of stem inclusion and roughly 20-30% new French oak. A balanced, rich effort, with notions of wild strawberry and black cherry fruit, lavender, spice and forest floor, it hits the palate with a rounded, supple texture, excellent mid-palate depth and juicy acidity that focuses the finish nicely. Richer and fuller than the Kick-on Ranch, it should benefit from short-term cellaring and have 10-12 years or more of longevity. Drink 2015-2022. This was one thrilling lineup of wines by Adam Tolmach and assistant winemaker Fabien Castel and this is always one of my favorite visits during my trip through the region. After making wine for close to 30 years, Adam continues to push for improvement and is subtly tweaking his wines to get more freshness, focuses and elegance out of them. Minimal new oak, low SO2 and few rackings are all the norm here, and these 2009s, 2010s and 2011s are some of the strongest wines I’ve tasted from this estate. They’re all highly recommended. Tel. (805) 798-3947; www.ojaivineyard.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
A vivid, totally alive wine, the 2010 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido is absolutely impeccable. Dark cherries, plums, mint, cloves and new leather are some of the many notes that take shape in the glass. The 2010 stands out for its delineation, nuance and breathtaking finesse. Cool veins of minerality support the finish. Next to the Solomon Hills, the Bien Nacido Pinot is a little more savory and aromatically nuanced, while the fruit is less overt. It will be fascinating to compare the two wines as they age in bottle.
Full ruby. Intensely aromatic nose evokes cherry, black raspberry, licorice, clove and musky flowers. red- and blackcurrant. Bitter cherry and dark chocolate flavors stain the palate and show very good depth, with a hint of dark chocolate adding a serious touch. Bright minerality firms the broad, chewy, long finish, which features dark berries and candied licorice. Here's another 2010 red wine that deserves patience.