2013 Mail Road Wines Pinot Noir Mt. Carmel
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The 2013 Pinot Noir Mt. Carmel Vineyard speaks to finesse. Luxurious and impeccably layered, the 2013 is positively radiant. At the same time, all the elements take shape effortlessly in the glass, with nothing that sticks out. There is plenty of intensity, but no excess weight. The 2013 was aged in French oak barrels, 33% new.
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Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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Similar to the Mt Carmel 3 5 bottling, except with more tension and vibrancy, the 2013 Pinot Noir Mt Carmel Vineyard spent 16 months in 33% new French oak, with the balance all in neutral oak, before being bottled unfiltered in March, 2015. It offers lots of rose petal, sappy underbrush and liquid-rock characteristics to go with ample cassis and black cherry fruit. Thrillingly textured, pure and seamless, with medium-bodied richness and depth, this is a sensational Pinot Noir from the Sta. Rita Hills that stays fresh and vibrant without making any concessions to fruit or texture. It will have 10-15 years of overall longevity.
The 2013 Pinot Noir Mt. Carmel Vineyard comes across as embryonic and not fully formed. In this vintage, the vines had less heat early and longer hang time. There is plenty of energy in the glass, not to mention considerable potential for the future. This is another hugely promising Pinot Noir from Mail Road. I can't wait to taste it from bottle.