2016 Byron Pinot Noir John Sebastino Vineyard Sta Rita Hills

"The 2016 Pinot Noir John Sebastiano Vineyard is another of the more powerful, deep wines in this range. The 33% whole clusters are nearly buried by the sheer intensity of the dark-fleshed stone fruit. Lavender, licorice, menthol and dark spice notes add to the wine's imposing personality, an impression that is reinforced by the potent tannins. There is no shortage of character, but the wine needs a few years in bottle to be at its finest. Drinking window 2019 - 2026." - Antonio Galloni Review Date: September 2018

"The 2016 Pinot Noir John Sebastiano Vineyard comes from a windy site planted on sandy loam with diatomaceous earth, using one-third whole cluster and 50% new oak. Pale to medium ruby and youthfully tight on the nose, it slowly gives up blueberry, black plum, violet and warm blackberries with blue fruit hints, cocoa, graphite, moss-covered bark and rain-spattered soil. Medium-bodied, silky and mineral-driven in the mouth, it slowly segues out to spice, with dusty-textured tannins and integrated acidity, finishing long and minerally. 150 cases were made. Drink dates 2020-2030." - Erin Brooks Review Date: September 2019