2021 Cirq Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

JD99+ A deep jeweled ruby/magenta hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley takes things to another level and is likely going to be just as impressive as the last release of 2019, as they made the difficult decision to skip the 2020 vintage due to the fires. On opening, it’s layered and refined on the nose, with notes of black raspberries, violets, dark mineral earth, and sweet cardamom spice. The palate boasts a luxurious silky and velvety texture that’s completely seamless, with a long, outstanding finish. It will show its best in another 5-6 years. Drink 2027-2040.
DEC97 Super fragrant, giving off brambly red fruit and intense spice notes from the whole cluster fermentation, with superb structure. Layers of warm tobacco, salted dark chocolate, and smoky blood orange combine with plenty of acidity and compact structure, making this a wine destined for cellaring. It’s exceptionally well-made, with precision focus, length, and balanced tension, supported by a firm, soaring tannic backbone.
VIN95 The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate is an elegant, luxurious wine. Plump and juicy but not at all heavy, the 2021 is wonderfully classy from start to finish. Succulent dark red cherry, pomegranate, blood orange and a kiss of new French oak race across the palate. Silky tannins and bright acids frame the long, persistent finish nicely. There’s a bit more restraint in Michael Browne’s wines these days, and that’s not a bad thing at all. This mid-weight Pinot is terrific. Drinking Window 2024 – 2034
JS95 Pretty floral, cinnamon and cedar aromas, then brilliant acidity and moderate tannins for a lively, lifted expression in this top-end wine from Michael Browne, co-founder of Kosta Browne. The balance is fresh, the feel is linear and electric, with an energized palate and lingering finish. Drink now or hold
Estate Notes: Decadent aromas of dark chocolate ganache complemented with strawberry rhubarb compote and whispering notes of cigar box and fresh cedar. Cascading layers of luscious dark cherry, fresh raspberries, and cranberry wrapped with soft notes of hibiscus tea, fresh earth, and warm cinnamon spice. An opulent and silky mouthfeel leads to an energetic mid-palate with bright acidity and elegant tannin structure. Remarkably expressive and commanding, this vintage leaves us with a resonating and mouth-watering finale.