Catching up on a few items from the recent past…
2011 Rhys Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard (Anderson Valley)
Finally through a small stash of these. 2011 Northern California Pinot Noir is pretty much at the top of regrettable purchases for me. I didn’t care for many of them on release, and the ones I let have a few (hopeful) years in the cellar I have liked even less. This falls in the liked even less category. Where it was once almost tolerable, it has since thinned out, and just feels emaciated and a bit green. I am not a big fan of Bearwallow Vineyard, but at least I am happy to drink other vintages.
2015 Failla Pinot Noir Savoy Vineyard (AndersonValley)
Hmm…maybe it’s Anderson Valley that does not ring right for me. Nah. This one tastes like a candied ‘Coca-Cola’ Russian River Valley Pinot. It’s sickly sweet without having any residual sugar.
2016 Failla Syrah Estate Vineyard (Fort Ross-Seaview)
That’s more like it. Meaty and savory with dark fruit holding a supporting role, the wine has gravitas, and is not quick to give up all its secrets. Time in the glass reveals more nuances. Herbal elements, leathery tones and sneaky tannins come in with time. This is very interesting to drink now, but it also has a lot of potential.