2000 Marcassin Pinot Noir Blue Slide Ridge Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Good full ruby-red color. Knockout nose of black raspberry, blueberry, coffee, truffle, smoke, wild herbs and mint. On the palate, a remarkably sweet, creamy, almost honeyed elixir of wild berries. As lush and mouthfilling as this is, it's also delineated and vibrant. Incredibly deep, nuanced pinot noir that finishes with firm, ripe tannins and great palate-saturating persistence. This should be rated XXX. This may well age well, but it's utterly irresistible right now. (Note to Turley and Wetlaufer: please release this wine at your earliest convenience.)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2000 Pinot Noir Blue Slide Ridge, my candidate for a DRC Richebourg on steroids vote, possesses the extraordinary aromatics that this vineyard routinely produces. The blueberry, blackberry, forest floor, mushroom, and gamy notes are all offered in a provocative smorgasbord of aromas. There is tremendous fruit intensity, medium to full body, outstanding acid levels, and a long, textured, spectacular finish. It is a compelling Pinot Noir to drink over the next 7-8 years. (Not yet released) Tel. (707) 258-3608; Fax (707) 942-5633