Cristom Pinot Noir Jessie Vineyard 2019 (750ML)

96 WA / 96 JS / 95 VM / 95 DE

The 2019 Pinot Noir Jessie Vineyard offers notable layering and purity this vintage. Intense, savory cranberry fruit is accented by tones of charcuterie and sweet balsamic on the nose, and the palate combines that sweet, savory and earthy character in a silky frame, finishing with a flourish of spices and great length. - Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate

The aromas are pretty amazing here with dried flowers, pure fruit, sweet berries and dark strawberries. It’s full-bodied and very layered with ripe, velvety tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Richness with focus. Very drinkable now, but better after 2023.—James Suckling

Dark garnet. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh red and blue fruits, Asian spices, botanical herbs and potpourri, and a smoky mineral topnote builds in the glass. Sweet, broad and supple on entry and then tighter in the midpalate, offering bitter cherry, Chambord, spicecake and floral pastille flavors that show sharp delineation and vibrant lift. The cherry note carries strongly through the impressively long, subtly tannic finish, which leaves lavender and baking spice notes behind. 45% whole clusters and 42% new French oak. - Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media

Cristom's estate Jessie Vineyard was planted in 1994 on steep volcanic soils with substantial vine density. The steep sloping creates natural terracing protecting vines from later afternoon sunshine, often resulting in wines of bright, floral character. This wine is emblematic of that stylistically and shows natural grace and sophistication—aromas of dried violet, sweet blueberry, fresh green herbs, and earthen scents. The palate is refined and exquisite, with bright, sweet strawberries, balsamic, and savoury spice flavours. The structure is delicate yet captivating, with a silken mouthfeel with floral character throughout. Beautiful.--CP, Decanter