WINEMAKER NOTES:
When the first few blocks were planted in 1988, no one could have predicted the consistent magic that would spring forth for decades to come. The old 1940s dairy pasture is now fully transformed to 25 acres of Pinot Noir vines whose forest perimeter creates a nearly mystical landscape. The 2022 wine is full of classic features: Sage, cedar, blueberry scone and strawberry compote.
TASTING NOTES:
A gorgeous Pinot Noir, the plantings from 1988 are being replanted as the phyloxerated vines are being removed. This wine shows elegance and grace while maintaining depth and concentration, but make no mistake, it's built to age. The Beaux Frères Vineyard is clonally diverse with a massale selection of Pommard and Wadenswil and 115. Red fruited aromas and beautiful interplay between bright berries mixed with fresh mint and savoury herbs. The palate remains fresh and elegant, with red-fruited generosity and savoury depth of spearmint and wild anise.
- Decanter, 97 pts.
Attractive and fresh pinot with red cherries, cranberries, minty pine-needle freshness and hints of citrus peel. Medium-bodied, bright and blooming, with delicious red-berry character. Very polished and refined. Flavorful and vivid. Drink or hold.
- James Suckling, 95 pts.
Darkly floral, the 2022 Pinot Noir The Beaux Frères Vineyard wafts up with an earthy bouquet as flowery underbrush and crushed ashen stones complicate dried black cherries and a flourish of lavender. This is cool-toned and racy, with a cascade of sweet spice and ripe red and blue fruits that flow across a stream of vibrant acidity. The 2022 finishes structured, long and beautifully balanced, leaving a classically dry sensation as rosy inner florals gradually recede. In 2022, Mikey Metzel pushed the new oak up to 35% from 25% due to the quality of the tannins and freshness of the fruit.
- Vinous, 95 pts.
With detail and dimension, this compelling red laces rich raspberry and guava flavors with spiced tea, sandalwood and rose petal tones while building tension toward medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2034.
- Wine Spectator, 95 pts.
The 2022 Pinot Noir The Beaux Frères Vineyard has dynamic aromas that segue from charcuterie and flint to roasted cranberries, forest floor and spice. The medium-bodied palate has pleasantly broody, meaty flavors structured by chalky tannins and vibrant acidity, and it has a long, spicy finish. It will benefit from 2-3 years in bottle.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 94 pts.
