2012 Foxen Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard
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Another stunner by this team, the 2012 Pinot Noir Julia’s Vineyard Santa Maria Valley comes from the shale and loam soils of the Cambria Estate vineyard and spent 17 months in 40% new French oak prior to being bottled un-fined and unfiltered. It offers a supple, medium-bodied and lightly textured feel to go with pretty red fruits, spice, underbrush and toasty qualities that continue to change in the glass. Possessing gorgeous purity, no hard edges and a forward, precocious, yet oh so classy style, enjoy this rock-star effort over the coming 4-5 years. I was blown away by these new Pinot Noir releases from Foxen, and they’re up near the top of the vintage. Unfortunately, I can’t say the same with regards to the Rhone blends, and these had superficial, mid-weight profiles geared for near-term drinking. As to the Bordeaux blends, these come from the eastern most AVA in Santa Barbara County and are labeled under the Foxen 7200 label. Tel. (805) 937-4251; www.foxenvineyard.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Rose petals, sweet red berries, mint and cinnamon are woven together nicely in the 2012 Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard. The Pommard clone planted here yields a supple, resonant Pinot built on fruit, mid-palate texture and approachability.