Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 93
The only release from Kevin Harvey’s team not from rocky soils, the 2013 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard offers a lot of floral characteristics in its supple, rounded, fruit-loaded personality. More red fruits than black, with a full, loaded mid-palate and a rocking texture, it might not have the tension or structure of the Horseshoe or Alpine Vineyard releases, but makes up for it with its charm and approachability. Drink this beauty anytime over the coming 8-10 years. 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: 2015-2025
Vinous 93
The 2013 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard comes across as dense, powerful and meaty, with notable intensity and a huge center of fruit, much of that an expression of these clay-rich soils. Smoke, game, dried flowers, tobacco and licorice add nuance as this virile, imposing Pinot shows off its personality. Hints of game and chalkiness impart a Volnay-like edge to the finish. There is a generosity to the 2013 that is impossible to miss.
Anticipated maturity: 2016-2025