2015 Satyre Wines, Pinot Noir “Aristaeus” Russian River Valley.
Satyre Wines, Nicole Kosta and her partner winemaker Ted Weisser, sourced their richly flavored Aristaeus Pinot Noir from two vineyards from the Dutton Ranch in the western part of the Russian River Valley. These cool vineyard sites allow Satyre to retain natural vitality in the wine, while the sandy Goldridge loam soils drain really well, making the vines struggle which intensifies the bold red fruit flavors. This is an all American Pinot Noir, showing lots of up front fruit, smoky sweet French oak and a curvy body, but there’s more here than meets the eye here, and the complexity fights through the big cherry cola and black raspberry first impact adding layers of dried Provencal herbs, rose petals and a surprising lift from acidity that keeps things in check along with hints of anise and Asian spices. I think, like young Rochioli Pinots, there is a lot more to come in the future here, be patient if you are looking for subtly and I believe there is a rewarding future ahead for Satyre’s impressive and wonderfully generous Aristaeus Pinot Noir, best between 2020 and 2028, though that said there’s a lot to like now, especially with matching cuisine. This is a label to follow, as reviewed before their Rosé, uniquely barrel fermented and aged is really good, check them out!
($54 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
