Grapelive Weekend Review

By Kerry Winslow

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bigbasinbaldmtn.gif2007 Big Basin Pinot Noir “Bald Mountain Vineyard” Santa Cruz Mountains.
The talents of Bradley Brown cannot be denied and his cult like following for his Syrah will no doubt chase after him with his new line-up of Pinot Noirs that look set to make a big splash. I had tried early samples of the Big Basin Pinots and had spoke of how I thought they would really turn out to be something special, and I think I got it right, as this wine confirmed. I still think the Santa Cruz Mountains are turning out great Pinot Noir grapes, especially as certain clones come into maturity in some of the new vineyards and areas there, with new talents like Bradley, and Richard Alfaro, Alfaro Vineyards leading the way, along with others, including Windy Oaks and Rhys, the region is making some of the most exciting wines going and look set to join the elite Pinot areas like the Santa Lucia Highlands, Santa Rita Hills, Russian River and the Sonoma Coast. This wine shows classic elegant Pinot flavors and silky texture with sublime balance. The nose is beautiful with floral tones of violets and roses with a hint of sweet smoky oak and earth before a lush and richly layered palate of raspberry, plum and currants to go along with the main black cherry core, while there is briar, tea spices, mineral and vanilla in the background. Quality fruit, a subtle touch and talent all show through on this wonderful Pinot Noir, so don’t miss out and try it yourself. Very limited and tiny amounts are just now reaching the market. ($40-45 Est.) 93-94 Points, grapelive

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*New Release

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By admin