2018 Foxen Pinot Noir John Sebastiano Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Pinot Noir John Sebastiano Vineyard has a pale ruby-purple color and offers deep red fruits with accents of dried herbs, forest floor and savory spices. The medium-bodied palate is spicy and floral, grainy and fresh, with an appealing saline-driven finish.
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Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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Moving south to the Sta. Rita Hills, the 2018 Pinot Noir John Sebastiano Vineyard comes from a mix of clones and was partially destemmed and aged in just under 40% new French oak. It has a pure, medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced style as well as lots of classy darker berry fruits, toasted spices, loamy earth, and sappy herb-like aromas and flavors. It's another balanced, impeccably put together Pinot Noir from this estate.
The 2018 Pinot Noir John Sebastiano Vineyard is bursting at the seams with energy and intensity. A touch of whole clusters (25%) adds energy to a Pinot that impresses with its explosive power and overall tension. The bright red fruit is extremely primary today. I would cellar the 2018 for a few years to allow more aromatic nuance to develop, but that will be challenging, as it is so compelling right now.