2017 Argot ‘Bastard Tongue’ Pinot Noir

Inheriting an unbroken string of success — dating back to 2011 — the 2017 “Bastard Tongue” arrives fully-formed and ready to impress. Always a blend from multiple Pinot Noir vineyards, this iteration of “BT” was selected from three distinct sites, each making their own unique contribution of Sonoma County terroir to the wine’s character. Exploding forth on a tidal wave of high-toned, intense red and black fruits, this is a Pinot Noir that no stemware can contain. The palate’s profound depth is balanced by an inherent freshness, allowing the wine to crackle with brambly energy, while sustained by bass notes of underbrush, black tea, pie spice and bakers chocolate. A formidable rendition of “Bastard Tongue”, and deserving successor to its line. 193 cases produced.
AGING: 20 months, French oak, 100% new.  Never racked prior to bottling.  Bottled unfined, unfiltered.
VINTAGE NOTES: A joyously opulent vintage of Bastard Tongue, reflecting both 2017’s dramatic growing season, and the inherent complexities of Sonoma County’s terroir. The wine glides across the palate, poised and elegant in texture, delivering bright red fruits, a profound depth of flavor and exuberant freshness, all while anchored by the classic, complex undertones of cool-climate Pinot Noir — pine-forest, minerality and spice. A wine that is thrilling to enjoy, and a worthy successor, that ups the ante set forth by its predecessors. Unfortunately, true to the vintage, yields were lower than in prior years, so there is a bit less wine to go around this year.