2023 MacIntyre Vineyard Pinot Noir

The 2023 Pinot Noir MacIntyre Estate Vineyard comes from grapes harvested on October 2 and 3, and the wine was matured for 11 months in 33% new French oak. It opens with aromas of charcuterie and flint that give way to expressive wafts of blueberry, pomegranate, aniseed, cedar and bergamot. The full-bodied palate is powerful and refined. Its concentrated, layered flavors are structured by luxuriously silky tannins and vibrant acidity, and it has a very long, kaleidoscopic finish. It should be long lived in the cellar. 975 cases were made.

Bright ruby in color, the 2023 Pinot Noir Macintyre Estate Vineyard is from 8-year-old vines, mostly small-berried Calera clone vines, and was fully destemmed. It’s forward and exuberant in the glass, with hints of blue fruit, fresh violets, pine needles, and dewy earth. Medium to full-bodied, it has a cooling, minty lift throughout, elegant length, and a youthful, energetic structure. Drink 2025-2040. Late last year, Andy Smith handed over the winemaking portion of his title to Jenna Davis. Jenna has been with the winery for over ten years, joining as a harvest intern in 2014 and working up to assistant winemaker. Andy retains his roles as partner and winegrower at DuMOL but was ready to pass the torch to the next generation in the winery’s legacy. The 2023s for this report were tasted in Sonoma with Andy and Jenna, as they have been for all three years of my coverage. Earning top marks for what this vintage has to offer, across the range the wines capture freshness and retain the focused concentration that gives them serious potential for longevity.

So pure, vibrant and concentrated, expanding in dark berries, black cherries, bitter oranges and cassis as you sip. Structured firmly with moderate tannins and vibrant acidity that frame gorgeous black fruit, minerals and savory spices. Full-bodied. Drinkable now, but best from 2030.