2021 Estate Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
Seven-day cold soak then 40% whole-cluster fermentation with native yeasts, with one week of extended maceration. Aged for 11 months in neutral French oak barrels. 7,824 cases produced. Scents of raspberry and raspberry leaf, with other herbs. Bright crystalline flavours of raspberry and cranberry are wrapped in a lightly grippy sheath of tannins, as excellent acidity keeps things fresh and juicy. Notes of dried flowers and dried herbs emerge on the finish. Compelling. GV (AY)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate Sta. Rita Hills shows the more classic style of this estate today and is unquestionably a qualitative match for a top Premier Cru from Burgundy, albeit at about a fraction of the cost. Translucent ruby, with a gorgeous nose of peppery red and black cherry fruits as well as spring flowers, baking spices, and subtle briny, marine-like nuances, it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, an elegant, lively mouthfeel, supple tannins, and perfectly integrated acidity. It will evolve gracefully for 8-10 years, if not longer.
Medium ruby, the 2021 Pinot Noir Estate has alluring aromas of cranberry and orange jelly, forest floor and Angostura bitters. Medium-bodied, it floods the mouth with waves of juicy berry fruit supported by fine, chalky tannins, and it finishes long and layered. This was vinified using about 40% whole clusters. 7,824 cases produced.
Melville’s 2021 Pinot Noir Estate is bright and effusive right out of the gate. Sweet red cherry, hard candy, spice and rose petal race across the palate. A touch of whole cluster savoriness adds shades of nuance. I would give the 2021 at least a year in bottle, as it is pretty reticent today.