2011 Pinot Noir Rincon Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Dark ruby color. Dark berries, cherry and Indian spices on the deeply scented nose. In a distinctly more broad-shouldered, masculine style than I expect from Talley, but in no way heavy or brooding. Spicy blackberry and bitter cherry flavors are enlivened by a juicy blood orange quality and a hint of cracked pepper. Finishes with building sweetness, subtle tannins and excellent persistence.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Showing the darker, more masculine side to the variety, the 2011 Pinot Noir Rincon Vineyard dishes out deep, mineral-laced aromas and flavors of black raspberry, licorice, vanilla and tinges of leather. Pure, rich and textured, with ripe tannin and a fantastic sense of tension and verve, it will have 12-15 years of ultimate longevity. Drink 2015-2026. These knockout efforts are made by Brian Talley and were some of the most impressive Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs I tasted during my more than two week trip through the central coast. In addition to their estate offerings, their Bishop’s Peak releases reviewed here come from purchased grapes throughout the central coast and offer good typicity and drinkability for not much buck. Tel. (805) 489-0446; www.talleyvineyards.com
Savory herbs, licorice, graphite and dark red fruit all emerge from the 2011 Pinot Noir Rincon Vineyard. These clay-rich soils yield a powerful wine loaded with pure structure and muscle. I would give the 2011 another year or two in bottle to meld together, but it is impressive, even today. The 30% whole clusters are nicely integrated in this classy, impeccable wine. Stylistically, the Rincon Vineyard is a bit more overt and fruit-driven than the East Rincon Vineyard in this vintage. It will be interesting to see if that difference holds across future vintages as well, or if it is more a factor of the 2011 vintage itself.