A cacophony of aromas, including hallmarks of the variety abound, with bell pepper and fresh-cut grass alongside white pepper and a hint of smoke. The palate bristles with evocative tastes across the flavor wheel, from fresh fruits to piquant spices and chalky limestone. It is a symphony of a sensory engagement, girded by an electric tension.
An instant engagement with the soil, surrounded by tobacco and fresh basil. This is a Pinot Noir with a style all its own. Deep notes of roasted coffee amplify ripe, brambly blackberry and black cherry. White-peppered cedar and a stand-up structure are noteworthy.
Glass-like entry, lean and sassy. White-peppered lemon curd, peach, and vanilla marshmallow are perky, ending with a crisp finish.
Aged in French oak for 11 months, the opening aromas of black cherry are overtly pleasant. With its pillow-light mouthfeel, notes of cranberry, sweet tobacco, and a hint of dusty cocoa align. Light on its feet, with a finish of lavender and cinnamon.
Cherries, blackberries, and cola fuse with traces of oak chips, green pepper, and smoke. The palate is compact, dense, and athletic like a linebacker. Girded with a sleek texture, balanced throughout and easy to drink, this blend is an exploration in dark fruit and a lightness of touch.
The perfume is mineral-driven with a delicate veil of wasabi. There is a gratifying tension on the palate with fresh oranges wearing a corsage of jasmine. On display is a winning combination of freshness, moxy and balance that is driven like the bassline of a jazz trio with a pulsing depth.
While the Oak Knoll displays a ruby hue, Stags Leap a purple-carmine, this Merlot offers a brick tint. Earth-laden notes of sandalwood meld with cherry skin tannins. High-toned acidity braces the palate, while flavors of toasted coconut and lime pith come forward. Cherry is bright and advances a sexy tension on the finish.
The first word that comes to mind is fresh. While notes of cherry and cherrywood charm the palate up front, a deeper dive brings out cigar wrapping and white pepper. Chalky tannins wrap around the tongue, but that Luxardo cherry vibrancy, thanks to its innate acidity, lingers through a lengthy finish.