2019 Beau Marchais Clos Pepe Vineyard Est (East) Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

15.1% alc., $95. From an eastern edge and middle of the vineyard that are protected. Clones 115 and Pommard. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Complex nose offering aromas of blackberry, cassis, violets, blueberries, underbrush, oak spice and sweet pipe smoke. Mid-weight plus in heft with flavors that replicate the aromas with added tastes of plum, tar and spice. Big-boned, yet sleek in texture. Infused with plenty of felty, dry tannins that contribute some astringency to the long finish. The alcohol is well positioned in the overall balance. A tasting of the wine the following day from an opened bottle required some coaxing in the glass to reveal itself. Score: 91. Reviewed March 21, 2021

Winery: Beau Marchais
From article: Clarice & Beau Marchais: Winemaker Adam Lee’s Newest Ventures