WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
This dark ruby-red Pinot Noir is bright and juicy. Fragrant aromas of red cherry, cranberry, and cassis sit alongside lifted dusty rose and tobacco leaf, while crushed stone and minerality support the vibrant fruit. On the palate, fresh, mouthwatering acidity accompanies a core of fresh red berries and dried cherry, while perfumed cedar, white pepper spice, caramel, and toasty vanilla oak come through as a tribute to the oak aging. Secondary notes of delicate cherry blossom, wild violet, dried thyme, and bay laurel are also present. The medium body supports soft tannins with a firm grip. The wine finishes long, smooth, and round with nuanced hints of graphite, clove spice, and earthy minerality derived from the volcanic soils adding complexity and depth, a signature characteristic found in Grace Benoist Ranch Pinot Noirs.
TASTING NOTES:
This is really savory with bay leaves, lightly grilled meat and violets. So complex. Full-bodied with fine yet chewy tannins that are layered and beautiful. Some basalt and white pepper undertones. Lovely soft and powdery tannins. Medium body at the end. Thoughtful wine.
- James Suckling, 96 pts.
The 2021 Pinot Noir Deer Camp Grace Benoist Ranch shows all the wild, exotic notes typical of the Martini clone married with the natural intensity of the year. Rich and full-bodied to the core, the 2021 possesses notable depth but pretty bright acids as well. Give this a few years in bottle. Today, the tannins are pretty imposing.
- Vinous, 93 pts.
A stylish version, with mulberry and boysenberry puree notes glistening with hints of anise, sous-bois and red tea. The restrained toast on the finish lets the fruit play out nicely. Drink now through 2029.
- Wine Spectator, 92 pts.
Pretty rose petal and cherry notes appear on the nose of Etude's 2021 Pinot Noir Grace Benoist Ranch. It's medium-bodied, silky and fresh, with terrific energy and intensity. No, it's not the most complex offering in the Etude stable, but it is flavorful and broadly appealing.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 91 pts.
