- 2014 Rhys Pinot Noir Alpine Hillside - USA, California, Santa Cruz Mountains (2/8/2024)
Sooner or later you have to open one. I had been staring at the 2014 Hillsides for a while, and entering its tenth year from the vintage seemed like a good time to check in. Better that I had put it in a decanter for a couple of hours, as it stated simple, but two hours later blossomed. When I got to my second glass the earthy depths created a foundation for the still fresh, dark red fruit. The savory, earthy elements were even more apparent on the palate, alongside brighter fruit and balanced tannins. Very enjoyable to drink after some air, but also seems poised for more a lot more development over the next 5-10 years.