2016 Reed Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
The 2016 Pinot Noir Reed Vineyard is full of red pomegranate and citrus, the acidity that Mount Harlan is known for surely holding up here. Well-mannered tannins and oak surround a full-bodied core of dried herb, earth, and stems. This was the first vintage after major drought issues in California, with 32 inches of rain during the year, double the average. As a result, the vineyard produced more fruit than usual, making for an abundant vintage. That exuberance is on display here, as is the ageability; this has another 10 years to go. Drink now through 2036.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
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Aged 17 months in 30% new French oak, the 2016 Pinot Noir Reed Vineyard is pale to medium ruby in the glass. The nose gives up dried rose petals, orange peel, warm wild blackberries, cured meats and a peppery touch with notes of potpourri, earth and amaro. Light to medium-bodied, it offers nuanced fruit and a sturdy, grainy frame, finishing long, lifted and juicy. 375 cases produced.
The 2016 Pinot Noir Reed Vineyard emerges from a northern facing slope planted in 1975 and dry-farmed, and is the last Pinot picked off the ranch. Soft and open-knit, the Reed looks like it will offer its best drinking sooner rather than later. This is an especially forward, fruity style. The 100% whole clusters add aromatic top notes to the sweet red berry, mint, pine and licorice flavors.
About the producer
Discover the wines from Josh Jensen’s pioneering estate in the Mount Harlan AVA, crafting elegant Pinot Noir from limestone soils in California