2011 UV Pinot Noir

The 2011 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard has more aromatic lift than most of the other Aubert Pinots. Savory herbs, licorice, mint and new leather all emerge from the glass in this layered, sensual Pinot. The UV is less overtly fruit driven, but seems to place more emphasis on the savory side of Pinot. Polished tannins support a finish laced with tar, smoke, iron, licorice and autumn leaves.

The 2011 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard has more aromatic lift than most of the other Aubert Pinots. Savory herbs, licorice, mint and new leather all emerge from the glass in this layered, sensual Pinot. The UV is less overtly fruit driven, but seems to place more emphasis on the savory side of Pinot. Polished tannins support a finish laced with tar, smoke, iron, licorice and autumn leaves. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2023. Mark Aubert has a brand new tasting room that is intimate and clubby. By the time I got to Aubert, I had tasted most of the Sonoma reference points. With that as a backdrop, these wines stood out for their sheer pedigrees. This is a world-class operation in every way. Because of the late, cool year, Aubert’s 2011 Chardonnays are a bit brighter and more focused than is the norm. In other words, the wines are deeply marked by the signatures of the year. Interestingly, that is not the case with the Pinots, which are pretty much in line with the juicy, generous style Aubert fans have become accustomed to. In contrast to the Chardonnay harvest, in 2011, there were no declassified Pinot lots. One of the developments at Aubert over the last few years is an increased focus on estate vineyards. As part of that trend, readers will see several additions to the range, while Aubert has decided to discontinue his Reuling Chardonnay. Tel. (707) 963-4569