2011 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Coastlands Vineyard

From an exceptionally cold site, the 2011 Pinot Noir Coastlands Vineyard carries 13.4% alcohol, one of the lowest in 2011. Cranberry, sweet and sour cherry and pomegranate aromas are followed by an austere, somewhat undernourished, but pretty, elegant wine. No doubt this delicate, restrained style has admirers, but this is an underwhelming Pinot Noir despite some pretty aspects. Drink it over the next 3-5 years. Alcohols in 2011 were not much lower than in some of the riper vintages, although they were definitely down. The 2011 Williams Selyem Chardonnays range between 13.9% (Heintz) to 14.5% (Olivet Lane). I tend to think this estate's Chardonnay program is underrated as it seems like their Pinot Noirs receive all the attention to the detriment of their Chardonnays, which can be brilliant. Tel. (707) 433-6425

Saturated ruby. Spicy cherry and redcurrant on the seductively perfumed nose, with complex floral and botanical herb qualities. Juicy and sharply focused, with vibrant red fruit flavors and a hint of vanilla bean. Fine-grained tannins add grip and focus to the seamless, clinging finish.