Winemaker's Notes
This wine is very much like what we expected to have ripeness-wise when the vineyard was first developed nearly 15 years ago: 13.3% alc. There’s an iron/blood thing that speaks of the nearby sea and sense of salinity. It does not appear super-rich at first glance, but has a surprising depth of flavor that comes in subtle, non-linear approach (substance within delicacy). Josh Raynolds wrote “Juicy and nicely delineated on the palate, showing very good depth and gentle sweetness to its mineral-laced red fruit flavors. The refreshingly bitter finish clings with vibrancy and spicy persistence.” (May 2014) I do think it is more approachable earlier than the previous vintages of this bottling that, while frustratingly latent, one is rewarded with patient aging as any who have tasted the 2008 which is beginning to happen now. Those looking for cold-climate Pinot Noir examples can see the edge this is poised upon.
Judi Scherrer –
International Wine Cellar – May 2014
Bright ruby-red. Lively and focused on the nose, displaying aromas of redcurrant, cherry and fresh rose. Juicy and nicely delineated on the palate, showing very good depth and gentle sweetness to its mineral-laced red fruit flavors. The refreshingly bitter finish clings with vibrancy and spicy persistence. 90 Points. Josh Raynolds
Judi Scherrer –
Vinous – February 2015
The 2011 Pinot Noir Platt Vineyard is pretty, but it is also a bit soft, especially through the mid-palate, where a measure of depth is lacking. Tobacco, crushed flowers, hard candy, mint, leather and dried cherries add nuance, but the wine never truly blossoms. Readers should consider drinking the 2011 Platt sooner rather than later. 88 Points. Antonio Galloni
Judi Scherrer –
California Grapevine – June 2015
Medium-light to medium brickish ruby; attractive, forward, ripe strawberry and black cherry fruit aroma with hints of damp earth, cardamom, and mocha; medium to medium-full body; rich, fleshy, slightly cedary, cranberry and black cherry flavors with good depth and acid balance; medium tannin; lingering aftertaste. Very highly recommended. 92 points. Nick Ponomareff