2011 Evening Land Pinot Noir Seven Springs Vineyard

The 2,700 cases of Evening Land's flagship 2011 Pinot Noir Seven Springs Vineyard ' comprised of around half Pommard and half Dijon clones ' is striking for its immediate display of carnal and mineral dimensions: smoked and roasted red meats, saline and alkaline sea breeze emerge already in the nose, accompanied, to be sure, by ripe dark berries. Tart-edged elderberry and blackberry inform a polished and vivaciously bright palate and correspondingly exuberant, sustained finish. There isn't an ounce of fat or of superficial sweetness here, and an undertone of forest floor and wet stone sets a somewhat somber contrast with the refreshing juiciness of fruit acidity; but the upshot of this dark-light paradox is both intrigue and sensual appeal. Look for high performance through at least 2022.

Drink Dates: 2013-2022

Author: David Schildknecht

Taut and aromatic, with firm tannins around a core of cherry, currant, cinnamon and mineral flavors, persisting expressively on a light frame.

Drink Dates: 2013-2017

Author: Harvey Steiman

Vivid red. Spicy cherry and red berry aromas are complemented by zesty minerality and a hint of potpourri. Bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors put on weight with air, showing a silky texture and slow-building sweetness. At once powerful and lively, with the berry and mineral notes echoing on the focused, persistent finish.

Author: Josh Raynolds

Issue: July/August 2014