Deovlet 2021 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills Zotovich Vineyard 750ml

The 2021 Pinot Noir Zotovich Vineyard comes from grapes grown in sandy soils, was vinified using 30% whole clusters and was matured for 12 months in barrel, plus an additional six months in sandstone vessels. It takes some time to open from matchstick and woodsmoke on the nose to a core of pomegranate and nuances of cola, bergamot, star anise and lavender. The medium-bodied palate is powerful and concentrated, with a frame of grainy tannins and seamless acidity that enlivens its flavors and calls you back to the glass. This complex, expressive wine will be long lived in the cellar.

Score: 96 points -- Erin Brooks, The Wine Advocate, 2023