Robert Parker |
98 RP - An absolutely stunning fireworks display of aromatics emerges when the nose gets close to the glass of this dense ruby/purple-colored wine. Foresty notes, spring flowers, black raspberry, black currants, sweet cherry, and sassafras all jump from the glass. Extremely layered, velvety-textured, and opulent, with a finish that goes on for 50 seconds, this full-bodied wine has extraordinary concentration, purity, and “gravitas.†It is a sensational wine that should drink well for up to a decade. Bravo! Gary Pisoni, and of course, his vineyard, are respectively the rock star and the grand cru site of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Pisoni has hit a home run with this modern-day reference to how prodigious California Pinot Noir from cool-climate areas can be. Sadly, there are only 600 cases, but that is much more than most vignerons of grand cru vineyards in Burgundy produce. About 15% stems were used in the upbringing, and the amount of new oak, according to Gary, was around 65 or perhaps 70%. |