We’ve been saving the 2018 and 2019 vintages of RN Estate pinot noir. But a few weeks ago we decided the time had come to open them. These are from the legendary Fiddlestix Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills. And these two wines prove an important point. Once upon a time, California wineries did not put vintages on their labels. The argument was that California’s climate was so consistent that there was no point. The 2018 and 2019 could not be more different. (If memory serves, Robert Mondavi began the practice of including this valuable information.)
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Interestingly, the 2018 still needs another year or two in the bottle. But the 2019 is drinkable right now, perhaps even a year over the hill. Forthwith, our tasting notes.
The 2018 ($65) has barely detectable aromas of black cherries. The color is dense purple. The flavor is much more aggressive than the 2019 with flavors of dark fruit and forest floor. The tannins are still a bit rough. Honestly, we have no idea whether this will age well. It has the structure, but may lack the necessary components.
By contrast, the 2019 ($110 magnum) is a light cherry color and very translucent. Aromas of red raspberries and rose petals are followed by cranberries and more raspberries on the palate. Tannins are still a bit rough but the finish is long and satisfying.
