Expert articles and wine tasting videos profiling wines from California, California wine regions, Napa Valley, Sonoma County, & more.
Soft and unassuming, this Pinot Noir exhibits a quiet luxury. Texturally it is smooth and soft and almost belies, the vibrant fruit notes of blackberry, black and Bing cherry, steeped black tea leaf and fresh/cut garden herbs. The tannins and acidity are modest making for an enjoyable and haptic drinking experience. Comprised of 14 different Pinot Noir clones from the Quail Hill Vineyard, this is truly a wine that exceeds the sum of its parts.
This harkens back to more traditional, Italian Nebiolo, rather than a California iteration. Of course, that was their goal in planting their northern Sonoma property to begin with. The fruit is rather muted, the tannins fairly tight, and the acidity is noticeable. These are all traits of good European wine and it’s nice to see California making something that represents Nebbiolo’s true style. Though the tannins are a little tight decanting is not necessary, although an hour or so would do some good.
This remains my favorite wine in the Carlisle line-up. Purple in color with a ruby rim, mostly opaque and bright. The nose is great with black cherries, raspberries, nutmeg and other spices and slight char. Lush texture! Great energy and balance. On the palate, this is young but delicious. Flavors of black cherries, black raspberries and red raspberries. Long finish. This is great on its own and will work with bigger foods. A nice choice with ribs or a (veggie) Burger off the grill. Drink over the next five to eight years.
