rose hip oil and sassafras
the 2019 Les Griffons De Pichon Baron is a more Merlot-dominated release and is 59% Merlot and 41% Cabernet Sauvignon that saw 40% new oak
Rich hints of smoked almond
Finished for many days in Charmat tanks
Herbal overtones join black cherries on the nose
2022 Dragonette Cellars Pinot Noir, Sta Rita Hills, USA Montevideo rose hip oil and sassafrasMoving to the Pinot Noirs, the 2022 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills comes from a mix of sites (mostly Fiddlestix, radian, and Sanford & Benedict) and saw 15 months in neutral oak. Its medium ruby hue is followed by a complex, medium bodied 2022 that has some gamey, iodine like character in its savory red fruits, leafy herb, bay leaf, and forest, earthy nuances. I love its overall balance, and it has terrific complexity and a satisfying, lively, upfront