2015 Pinot Noir Cuvee Isabel
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Tasting notes
Barrel selection from plots across California. Pale garnet. Fresh earth, ripe red cherry, cinnamon oak and a touch of dried, mixed herbs. Plump, fairly full bodied, cinnamon and black cherry. Fairly fine, moderate tannins giving good structure, with a long, cherry and caramel finish. (TJ)
Critic scores
Average Score
Tim Jackson MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2015 Pinot Noir Isabelle is a selection from multiple vineyards and shows that site specific cuvées are not always the best. I just loved this beauty’s bouquet and it has a complex, layered style in its mulberry, cherry, spice box, flowers, and forest floor notes. Just gorgeous on the palate as well, with perfect balance, no hard edges, and a seamless texture, it has fine, integrated tannins and a great finish. It's reminiscent of a top Volnay and will keep for 10-15 years.
The 2015 Pinot Noir Isabelle is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar. Undeniably flashy and ripe, the Isabelle is another success from Au Bon Climat in 2015. Time in the glass brings out the wine's depth and substance, both of which carry through to the resonant, expressive finish. I would give the 2015 a few years in bottle to come together fully. There is more than enough brightness to ensure a number of years of very fine drinking.