Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 93
The 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is as sexy and fruit driven as the wines from this estate get. Giving up tons of strawberries, blueberries, crushed violets and assorted floral notes, it’s upfront and layered on the palate, with plenty of fruit, good concentration and a big finish. Shining for its mouth filling fruit and texture, it’s still far from blowsy or soft, and should evolve nicely. Kevin Harvey and his team at Rhys have hit homeruns in 2013 and these latest releases are some of the top Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays coming out of California today. For more in-depth vineyard information, readers should look at the 2011 and 2012 retrospective article published earlier this year. Tel. (866) 511-1520; www.rhysvineyards.com
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2023
Vinous 93+
The 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard Porcupine Hill appears to be going through a closed phase, as it is not as expressive as it has been on the two occasions I tasted it from barrel. Today, the Porcupine Hill gives the impression of being more aromatic and lifted than the straight Bearwallow, but today the tannins are imposing. White pepper, chalk, orange peel and tobacco add nuance, but it is the wine’s power that stands out above all else. Readers will have to be patient.
Anticipated maturity: 2017-2025
