2013 Albatross Ridge, Pinot Noir, Cuvee Vivienne, Estate Grown, Carmel Valley, Monterey County.
Garrett Bowlus and his label Albatross Ridge in Carmel Valley continue to impress with lovely Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, it was interesting to follow up the brilliant 2012 with the 2013 vintage wines, these are maybe even better with greater texture and mouth feel, especially the Cuvee Vivianne Pinot. Lush detail and beautiful length mark the 2013 wines, both the Chardonnay and Pinot show wonderful fruit and purity with medium bodies and good density, almost creamy, it was hard to chose between them, but the Pinot might have won out in the end, though I still have the Sparkling Rose of Pinoit Noir, a Pet-Nat, to look forward to and review soon. The 2013 Cuvee Vivianne Pinot Noir is less edgy than the 2012 with more refined tannins and supple and opulent red fruits, it starts with wilted roses, dusty plum, loamy earth and hint of vanilla and cedar leading to a palate of creamy red cherry, raspberry and strawberry fruit, touches of mineral, wild herbs, cinnamon, chalky stone and tart currant. This is very pleasing wine with elegant polish and poise, but still excites with vibrancy and subtle acidity giving life and harmony, these 2013’s are the best overall set I’ve tasted from Albatross Ridge, I highly recommend checking them out.
($35 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
