94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
93 Points - Wine Enthusiast
92 Points - Wine Spectator
91 Points - Vinous
90 Points - Wine & Spirits
An elegant red, featuring fine-grained red fruit flavors that are filled with lithe minerality and spiciness. Crunchy adidity ties all the elements together. Finishes with touches of cocoa powder. ~ Wine Spectator
The 2017 Pinot Noir Older Barrels is a selection from Ashley's done in all neutral oak, which, not surprisingly, brings out a decidedly understated and gracious expression of the Sta. Rita hills. Floral and spiced notes are nicely lifted over a core of sweet Pinot fruit. ~ Antonio Galloni's Vinous
With its forward strawberry fruit and cinnamon-stick oak spice, this wine is irresistibly Californian in its sunny, fruit-forward disposition. It's simple and crowd-pleasing, for a pork loin dinner. ~ Wine & Spirits
Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir (Clones Pommard, 667, 777, 115 & 114)
Vineyard Source: 100% Ashley's Vineyard (Blocks W, 4A & 1)
Harvest Dates: 9/6/17 - 9/15/17
Aging: 17 months in 100% neutral 4-year old & older French oak barrels
Cooperage: Ermitage, Seguin Moreau, Sirugue, Meyrieux, Bel Air
Harvest Brix: 23.3 - 26.2
Acid: 0.626 g/100mL
pH: 3.56
Alcohol: 14.1%
Production: 301 cases
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
Exceptional!
Reddish-purple in color with aromas of blackberry, plum, pomegranate, herbs de Provence, and licorice. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry, cassis, and licorice that carries through, with notes of black pepper, mocha and chocolate. Very long, spicy, with a fruit-driven finish. Great aging potential.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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