2017 Littorai Pinot Noir Roman Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Pinot Noir Roman Vineyard is bold, punchy and full of character. Bright floral and savory notes give the Roman lift, nuance and energy to match its mid-weight personality. Rose petal, mint, citrus and bright red berry fruit all pulse through this wonderfully detailed, vivid Pinot from Littorai. I would give it a few years in bottle to allow the tannins to soften.
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Average Score
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
This is right at the top of the hill (900-ft elevation) and has a fresh, red-cherry and red-berry nose with freshly cut herbs, as well as complex, earthy and savory notes. Blood oranges and pink grapefruit, too. Very distinctive. The palate has a very plush and enveloping feel with such long, supple tannins that really fill out the finish. This has volume and chasmic length. One of the highlights of the vintage at Littorai. Drink or hold.
The 2017 Pinot Noir Roman Vineyard is another standout in this range. Dark, pliant and super-expressive, the 2017 possesses remarkable density and textural richness. The flavors are dark and also incisive in a wine that shows a more sepia-toned, brooding side of Pinot. I imagine the Roman is another wine in this lineup of 2017s that is going to need time.
About the producer
Littorai stands as one of California’s most quietly influential estates, defined by organic and biodynamic farming, site transparency, and a restrained, Burgundian sensibility.