2009 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Peay Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2009 Pinot Noir Peay Vineyard comes across as big, relatively full-bodied and heavy. There is plenty of depth to the fruit, but not so much in the way of finesse or elegance. I expected more from this bottling.
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Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2009 Pinot Noir Peay Vineyard comes across as big, relatively full-bodied and heavy. There is plenty of depth to the fruit, but not so much in the way of finesse or elegance. I expected more from this bottling given the location of the vineyard. 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
Glass-staining ruby. Seductively scented, expansive bouquet of smoky blackberry, boysenberry and resinous herbs. Cola and vanilla qualities gain power with aeration and carry onto the palate, which features sappy dark berry and candied cherry flavors. Tannins build slowly with air but not at the expense of the densely packed fruit. Impressively juicy and concentrated pinot with outstanding thrust and cling. As much as I admire the power and depth of this wine, I have a slight preference for the litheness of the Hirsch right now. It would be a treat to be able to compare them down the road.
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.