2016 Starscape Vineyard Pinot Noir Magnum

Each year, I almost regret writing the tasting note for Starscape. It’s a rockstar Russian River Valley vineyard, with stellar fruit that always showcases the exact flavor and aroma profile you’d expect from a great RRV vineyard. So it pains me to trot out the old “Bing cherry and cola aromas” — people use these descriptors all the time, but they really are always in the mix with Starscape. This 2016 has a spring in its step; elevated acidity makes this a very vibrant and active wine on the palate. That Bing cherry transforms to a tart pie cherry as you take a sip, and you also get a hint of something minty — maybe tarragon? — that lingers after a taste. The medium palate leads to a long finish, where nice tight tannin shows up late.  - Alan Baker, Winemaker