2013 Pahlmeyer Wayfarer Vineyard Pinot Noir Mother Rock
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Tasting notes
Medium to deep ruby-purple, the 2013 Pinot Noir Mother Rock (made from Mt. Eden and 777 clones) has a gorgeous, spicy nose of Chinese five spice, raspberry coulis, red currant jelly and dried rose petals with a touch of smoked meat. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is opulent and seductive, with velvety tannins and lovely, understated freshness, finishing with lingering perfumed notes.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Currants, licorice, roasted herbs and some meaty notes all emerge from the 2013 Pinot Noir Mother Rock, which is masculine and concentrated, with a distinct Côte de Nuits character. Deep, medium to full-bodied and impeccably balanced, with high, yet integrated acidity, it’s easily my favorite of the 2013s from Bibiana. There’s a tiny 325 cases made, but it’s a singular expression of California Pinot Noir.
A more floral and mineral profile emerges from 2013 Pinot Noir Mother Rock. Flowers, chalk, iron, white pepper and a host of saline/ferrous notes wrap around a core of distinctly red-toned fruit. The chalk-rich soils confer notable energy and focus, while a dollop of whole clusters adds savory overtones.