Enjoyed this wine over the course of three evenings. Improving and gaining character each day, with the last quarter bottle being a righteous expression of minimalist-style, whole cluster pinot noir wine-making in the Santa Cruz Mtns by Bradley Brown.
Really a stunner upon opening the bottle, the whole cluster component is evident right away with spice and wonderful piquancy on the nose and palate.
Less intervention with increased expression of terroir.
It was a joy visiting and getting to chat one on one with Messr. Brown a couple of years ago. An incredibly beautiful area.
With the third day, a bit of the sharp edges had mellowed and slowly gave a glimpse of a very nice future. Tart , very pure Balaton cherry, spiciness, and a note of anise on an incredibly savory frame. Irresistible. A truly incredible sous bois on the nose.
The Woodruff and the Alfaro are my two favorite pinot noirs from Big Basin. I can't wait to try the 2013 Alfaro....
Interestingly enough, Jeb Dunnuck comments that the move to a leaner style of pinot noir has not always produced optimal results at Big Basin. I would heartily disagree with this viewpoint. Messr. Brown is following his heart and making beautiful pinot noir.
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