2017-2018 Cirq Russian River Valley Pinot Noir (1.5L) Vertical

“I loved the 2017 Pinot Noir last year, and it didn't disappoint this go-round. Coming from a mix of sites in the Russian River Valley, its deep ruby/purple color is followed by rocking notes of black raspberries, kirsch, sappy flowers, violets, and Asian spices. These all carry to an elegant, incredibly seamless Pinot Noir that has awesome tannins, no hard edges, and just a plush, sexy style that begs to be drunk. Nevertheless, its balance and purity will all keep this drinking nicely for a solid decade. (JD)” (05/2020)

“From several different vineyards, the 2017 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley has a gregarious nose of blackberry jam, underbrush, tar, oodles of ripe red berries, potpourri, black tea leaves and a very spicy undercurrent—lush, deep and still very youthful. Medium to full-bodied, it explodes in the mouth with loads of spicy ripe fruits firmly knit by grainy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing long and flavorful. This is a big, powerful and delicious expression, a Pinot with so much stuffing. This will be released in the fall of 2020. (EB)” (12/2019)

“Powerful and well-structured, with pomegranate flavors that feature notes of iron, smoke and dried berry, backed by taut tannins. The savory finish is filled with dried cooking spice accents. (KM)” (10/2020)

“The 2017 Pinot Noir Estate is an attractive mid-weight Pinot, supple but also much more refined than previous wines. Ripe red/purplish berry fruit, spice and sweet floral overtones all meld together nicely. Although quite attractive, the 2017 is much lighter in feel and overall weight than previous releases. (AG)” (01/2020)

“The 2018 Pinot Noir sports a medium ruby, plum, almost opaque hue as well as a killer bouquet of ripe black raspberries, redcurrants, roasted herbs, loamy earth, and sandalwood. Rich, almost full-bodied, and beautifully textured, with silky, polished tannins, this is another rock star of a Pinot Noir from Michael Browne that will deliver the goods over the coming 7-8 years, probably longer, although I have no idea why you would delay gratification! (JD)” (07/2021)

“The 2018 Pinot Noir Estate is racy and exuberant right out of the gate. A rush of sweet red cherry fruit, mocha, spice, cola, licorice and plum race across the palate. Succulent and engaging, with soft contours, the 2018 will drink well right out of the gate as it shows off its sensual personality. Readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off. (AG)” (01/2021)

“Expressive nose of cloves, violets, mulberries, blueberries and porcini mushrooms. Rich, intense and spicy, yet elegant too, with silky tannins and a medium to full body. Delicious earthy undertones. Drink now or hold.” (01/2023)