2013 Rhys Pinot Noir San Mateo County
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
A cool, restrained and elegant if all but mute nose only grudgingly reveals pretty and notably airy aromas of red currant and cherry scents. There is good vibrancy to the delicious and caressing middle weight flavors that are lush and generous yet manage to retain good focus on the clean, dry and polished finale. This is not super complex at present but I very much like the delivery. Note further that while this could easily be enjoyed now I would be inclined to allow it 3 to 5 years of cellaring first with the goal of allowing more depth to develop.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Much more fruit loaded and rounded than the Santa Cruz Mountains release, the 2013 Pinot Noir San Mateo County comes mostly from the Family Farm vineyard, with a touch from Horseshoe. It gives up lots of strawberry, Bing cherry, spice, and floral nuances to go with beautiful fruit and texture on the palate. It's one of the most approachable Pinots in the lineup, but I suspect it will still have another 5-7 years of longevity.
The 2013 Pinot Noir San Mateo County is bright and decidedly citrus-laced in its profile. Bright red cherry, orange peel, white pepper and savory herbs. The 50% whole clusters add lift, but are also impeccably balanced throughout. With time in the glass, distinctly sweet, kirsch-inflected notes are pushed forward. Delicate and lithe in the glass, the 2013 San Mateo will drink well pretty much upon release. The 2013 is mostly Family Farm with a touch of Horseshoe. (AG)