Sourced exclusively from the steep, cool-climate Jentoft Vineyard on the western edge of the Russian River Valley, this Pinot Noir captures the vineyard's distinctive combination of intensity and elegance. Planted to Calera and Swan clones, the wine was aged 15 months in 45% new French oak and bottled unfiltered, showcasing the exceptional 2018 vintage.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep ruby with vibrant garnet highlights.
Aromas: Expressive aromas of cranberry, black cherry, rhubarb, Asian spice, juniper, orange peel, and subtle floral notes intertwine with hints of forest floor and sweet baking spice.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with remarkable purity and energy. Layers of black raspberry, huckleberry, pomegranate, and dark cherry are complemented by notes of crushed herbs, peat moss, sweet tobacco, and mineral undertones. Bright acidity and finely textured tannins create exceptional balance and precision.
Finish: Exceptionally long and seamless, with lingering red and black fruits, floral lift, savory earth, and a refined mineral backbone that promises graceful aging.
Food Pairings
- Roast duck breast
- Herb-crusted lamb
- Wild mushroom risotto
- Cedar-plank salmon
- Pork tenderloin
- Aged Gruyère or Comté
Professional Ratings
- 98 Points – Jeb Dunnuck
- 96 Points – Wine Advocate
- 95 Points – Vinous
- 93 Points – Wine Spectator
Overall Review
The 2018 DuMOL Jentoft Vineyard Pinot Noir is a stunning expression of cool-climate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, marrying vibrant red fruit with savory complexity, mineral tension, and impeccable balance. Powerful yet graceful, it offers immediate appeal while possessing the structure to evolve beautifully over the next 10–15 years.
- Jeb Dunnuck: 98 points; described as a stunning, world-class example of Pinot Noir with ripe black raspberry, baking spices, forest floor, and earth notes.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 96 points; noted for its savory character with scorched earth, prosciutto, and dried herbs over a core of lush black berry fruit, finishing long and layered.
- Vinous (Antonio Galloni): 95 points; considered a deep, potent, and brooding style, with black cherry, spice, leather, tobacco, and menthol notes that require a few years of cellaring to fully develop.
- Wine Spectator: 93 points; a powerful, savory style offering tarragon, sage, dried berry, and cherry flavors backed by zesty acidity.
