2009 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast
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Tasting notes
The 2009 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is a great introduction to the style of Pinot prevalent on the coast. Flowers, mint and red berries come together beautifully in this energetic, vibrant Pinot. Sweet floral notes add brightness and lift on the high-toned finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. I tasted a dizzying array of Pinot Noirs from Williams Selyem and winemaker Bob Cabral. Yields were down in 2009 because of bunch-stem necrosis, a condition that can occur because of weather/humidity extremes or mineral imbalances. Otherwise, it was a pretty regular vintage with an even set and a harvest that took place beginning in early September. Tel. (707) 433-6425
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Bright red. Sexy aromas of strawberry and raspberry are complicated by subtle cola and rose nuances, along with mounting spiciness. Tangy red fruit flavors gain depth and sweetness with air, taking a turn toward cherry preserve and spicecake, with silky tannins adding shape. This very nicely focused, taut wine finishes with excellent thrust and persistent spiciness. Cabral said ruefully that "people will drink this too young, as usual, simply because it isn't vineyard-designated."
About the producer
Williams Selyem is an iconic Russian River Valley winery best known for its Pinot Noir. Producing restrained yet classically Californian expressions of the heartbreak grape (as well as a host of other wines), the property has gone from pioneer to one of the region’s standard-bearers.