2018 Proem No. 2 Pinot Noir

Winemaker Notes A wine of distinction and opulence with opening perfumed aromatics of fresh strawberries, candied red cherry and dried rose petals. Expansive in the mouth with layers of red fruit, baking spice and earthy notes. This wine represents a pure expression of the Pastorale Vineyard, highlighting its delicate floral character, strong acid backbone, and deliberate tannin structure that culminates in a complex, elegant offering with a lingering finish.

Winemaking Data Block 212 from our Pastorale Vineyard, planted to 100% Swan clone, 35% whole cluster inclusion. Aged for 15 months in 55% New French oak and 45% used French oak barrels. The inaugural vintages of Joseph Phelps Proem wines have been aged in bottle for over a year prior to their release. A one hour decanting is suggested before enjoyment, or add to your cellar for 10-15 years.

Vintage Notes The 2018 Sonoma Coast growing season was marked by cool, mild weather. The cooler than normal spring delayed budbreak, bloom and veraison by two weeks compared to the previous five years. The mild weather patterns in August and September allowed for excellent overall phenological ripening and development of a complex aroma and flavor profile in the finished wines.

Reviews 97 Points - James Suckling
A beautifully textured pinot noir with aromas of raspberries, mushrooms, dried roses, crushed stones and licorice. Juniper berries and lemon pith too. Fantastic minerality. Medium- to full-bodied with seamless, velvety tannins. Almost melts in your mouth. Depth and character at the end of the palate. Delicacy with intensity. 35% whole cluster Single plot pinot. Swan clone. About 250 cases made. Drink from 2022. (Dec. 2021)

96 Points - Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The 2018 Pinot Noir Freestone Estate Proem #2 comes from the Pastorale Vineyard. It's especially expressive, with a medium ruby color and fragrant wafts of strawberry, raspberry, burnt orange peel, graham cracker and dried roses. The light-bodied palate offers a rare balance of concentrated flavors, bright acidity and refined tannins, and its full flavors are complemented by delicate new oak spices. Lovely! -EB, July 2022

Tasting Notes Download Tasting Notes (pdf)