Vaughn Duffy Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2018

Very attractive dark berries and cherries are wrapped in aromas of blueberries, subtle spices and violet flowers. The palate has a smooth, sleek and attractively fleshy feel with a concentrated yet approachable build into the long finish. Drink now.

Freeman's 2018 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) is absolutely gorgeous. Racy and exuberant in the glass, the 2018 exudes richness and all of the allure of the year. Bright acids lend brightness to a core of black cherry, plum, spice, lavender, sage and floral notes. Soft curves give the open-knit, pliant Pinot tons of sheer appeal. Far from an easygoing appellation level Pinot, the 2018 packs plenty of punch, with a lot of tannin and bright acids. Give it a few years to soften. Vineyard sources are Gloria and Keefer. This is a fabulous appellation-level wine.

This wine is textured, complex and rich-a good showcase for the appellation. Dense layers of dark cherry and strawberry complement the earthier tones of black tea, forest floor and rhubarb, ending in a robust finish of toasted oak.