2011 Rhys Vineyards Bearwallow Vineyard Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

Like in 2012, the 2011 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is distinctly different than the Santa Cruz Mountain releases in both its aromatics and texture. Giving up loads of underbrush, juniper berry, lavender, currants and sweet kirsch, it hits the palate with medium-bodied depth and richness, nicely integrated acidity and tannin, and a clean, focused finish that lacks length compared to the 2012. Elegant, upfront, complex and classy, drink it over the coming 4-5 years. Review Date: April 2015

A dusty mix of dried herb and savory berry is at the core of this balanced effort. Turns dry, with persistent savory-graphite?crushed rock minerality, lending this a juicy aftertaste. Drink now through 2022. Review Date: March 2015