A blend of Aston Estate and Sonoma Coast vineyards, brewed in exactly the same way as the X label, aged in French barrels for 10 months (10% new barrels), released one year earlier. A red berry flavor that retains the character of the Annapolis vineyards. Fresh fruits such as cherries and cranberries explode out. The wine emphasizes the balance between richness and fresh acidity, and upon release, you can enjoy the lively fruit and spicy charm.
Vintage Information
2018 was a fantastic vintage that was every winemaker's dream come true.
The winemaker was able to manage the cultivation and harvest the grapes exactly as he wanted to create the type of wine he wanted.
Aston enjoyed a long growing season which allowed the grapes to be harvested at perfect ripeness.
The acidity was also perfect, making this a rare vintage where we were confident that we would be able to produce the wine we wanted even before brewing began.
Tasting Comments
When poured into the glass, the wine shows a deep red-purple color and is full of rich aromas such as blueberries, plums, and prunes, which are not typical of Pinot Noir.
The flavor is rich, yet deep and broad, with supple tannins that spread horizontally and vertically throughout the mouth.
The palate is full of rich black berries such as blackberry jam and plum, as well as the pleasant baking spice nutmeg, and also features unique nuances of tobacco, iron reminiscent of red earth, minty herbs, and truffle.
The creamy, silky smooth mouthfeel and full-bodied, rich fruitiness fully display the characteristics of the Dijon clone, but the acidity is better absorbed than in previous vintages, adding a refreshing sensation in addition to its richness.
I am excited to see the unique characteristics of the Annapolis terroir expand its possibilities even further.
The future is still exciting.
Vintage: 2018
Capacity: 750ml
Type: Red wine
Taste: Medium bodied
Main variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Country of Origin: America
Region Name: California
AVA: Sonoma Coast
Nested AVA, Other: Annapolis Area
Vineyard: 100% Aston Estate (own vineyards)
Notes: 93P Jeb Dunnuck dated July. 2021 by Jeb Dunnuck
Winemaker: Thomas Rivers Brown
Vinification: Vinification varies by year, but almost all stems are removed.
Aging: Aged in French barrels for 10 months (10% new barrels). Aged in bottle for 3 years.
Rating: 90P or above
Cap: Cork
Alcohol content: 14.7%