2014 Patz & Hall Hyde Vineyard Carneros Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 1,056 cases, $75. Sourced from three small blocks within the larger Hyde Vineyard combining new and older plantings of the Hyde-Calera selection and include coveted grapes from the “old field.” Patz & Hall has sourced grapes from Hyde Vineyard since 1995 and several sections of the vineyard are planted exclusively for Patz & Hall. 10% whole clusters, wild and cultured yeast fermentation, aged in French oak barrels, 60% new, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Intoxicating perfume of black cherry, pomegranate, black grape juice and sweet oak. Full-bodied, with earthy flavors of black raspberry, blackberry and black cherry framed by slightly grainy tannins and complimentary oak. A very honorable wine with a succulent mid palate, a silky mouthfeel and a palate-staining finish. Even better when re-tasted later in the day from a previously opened bottle. A dreamy ode to Larry Hyde’s legacy. Score: 96. Reviewed June 18, 2016

Winery: Patz & Hall
From article: Expensive & Allocated Crimson Liquid: Are Cult Pinot Noirs Worth It?