Marcassin Vineyard Pinot Noir

Holy cow this evolved beautifully. Cork crumbled and I didn’t expect much but the kaleidoscope of aromas and flavors are unreal.

Wine dinner with friends; paired with skirt steak

I tend to avoid American Pinot as I often find them too extracted, opulent and awkward. Marcassin is one of the few I enjoy. It’s not Burgundy and it doesn’t intend to be, and despite the easily detectable use of 100% new oak, it’s well integrated and balanced. I found 2013 to be just about every bit as deep, layered and complex as 2012 showing rich black raspberries and black cherries, baking spice, incense, purple flowers and a terrific midpalate richness that gives way to a long palate coating finish. Maybe I have a subconscious attraction to its exclusivity and rarity, but Marcassin is definitely my favorite California Pinot.

Silky smooth, complex and layered. Raspberry, cranberry, cherry liquor, boysenberry, brown sugar, cola and black tea.

After dinner bottle 1 on NYE

At almost 20yr old, the fruit still tasted fresh. Seemed like it was just coming into its own. Great great wine.

November’s 4th Friday was a big hit. There is no way I’ll be able to upload all the wines, nor give them the reviews they deserve, but there were a few worthy of mentioning!

This may be the best non Blue Slide Ridge Pinot I’ve had from Marcassin. Impeccable and totally balanced. The sweet fruit (raspberries, rhubarb, black cherries) has faded to meld with the mineral and earthy components. Nothing stewed or muddled. Cedar, black tea, potpourri and spices toward the finish. This deserved a table of its own. Thanks @Dan Fitzgerald

New world, but not too much. Nose was bright cherry, a bit of bramble. Palate floral, rose for sure. Opened up. Pretty Pinot. PERFUME!!

My guests leave me the nicest gifts!

So nice. Alcohol a bit high right now. This one needs a little more time to settle in. Pedigree is there and Burgundian undertones there alongside some clear new world notes.