2008 Rhys Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard

The 2008 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard (250 cases) is the least impressive of these 2008 Pinots. Clipped, short, tart, and monolithic, it appears to lack the concentration of its siblings. This ambitious operation aims to produce world-class wines from tightly-spaced, high elevation, cool climate vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The wines for Rhys’ second label, Alesia, are fashioned from purchased fruit. The commitment to minimal organic and, if possible, biodynamic farming, naturally low yields, and hands-off winemaking are further evidence of the passion this estate possesses. They currently have five vineyards under vine, Alpine, Family Farm, Home Vineyard, Horseshoe Ranch, and Skyline, all of which are situated at high elevations in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The winemaking philosophy appears to be a work in progress, and since there are no older vintages, there is no track record for aging. The wines seem to possess considerable structure, and in their youth, they may only hint at their future potential. Many of these offerings are made in limited quantities of less than 50 cases, with their largest releases being the Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard (about 600 cases), Pinot Noir Horseshoe Ranch (around 450 cases), Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard (550 cases), and the Syrah Horseshoe Ranch (500 cases). I have intentionally kept my tasting notes on the limited production cuvees brief. Tel. (866) 511-1520