Cristom 2021 Mt. Jefferson Pinot Noir 750ml

The 2021 Mt. Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir includes 52% estate fruit. It was fermented with 44% whole clusters, and the wine matured in 20% new French oak for 11 months. It opens slowly to reveal aromas of cranberry, red cherry and star anise, plus finer nuances of Earl Grey tea leaves, pipe tobacco and iron. The medium-bodied palate features delicately styled, juicy red fruit framed by softly chalky tannins, and it boasts expansive floral and spice character on the long finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in bottle.

Score: 92+ points -- Erin Brooks, The Wine Advocate, 2024