2004 St. Innocent Pinot Noir Justice Vineyard 13.6% Alc, 50% New French Oak
These are young vines. When I tasted it out of the barrel I stated that this may help replace the loss of the Brick House Vineyard (used solely by Brick House wines now…I think). Well this is certainly unique but it does carry some of the same Christmas spice as Brick House. I loved this out of the barrel and then I cracked a bottle a few months ago. I think that bottle was off. The dill was so strong I thought I was drinking pickle juice. This bottle however is what I remember from the barrel. The aromatics are world class. A trademark of SI wines. The flavors are a mix of spicy fruit , minimal amounts of vanilla and a touch of herbs. This is coming together nicely. Great mouth feel. Perfect with grilled meats. All the earth and flowers that I love with Pinot … but the wonderful surprise of spice. Ha! I paid in the mid $20s for this. This is certainly premier cru quality. It is not perfectly integrated right now but I am sure it will with a few years. 91 pts.
Peace,
Jason