2021 Maxem "Savoy Vineyard" Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

Winemaker Sam Kaplan says continued drought in the Anderson Valley during the 2021 growing season resulted in smaller, thicker berries and highly concentrated wines, and this 2021 Pinot Noir Savoy Vineyard is powerful and age-worthy. Matured for 15 months in Remond, Taransaud and Chassin oak barrels, its initial flinty tones give way to black cherries and blueberries plus accents of conifer, lavender, shiitake mushrooms and turned earth. The medium-bodied palate features layered, spicy flavors supported by firm, chalky tannins and a bright spine of acidity, and its detailed and chiseled structure suggest it will have more to reveal after several years in bottle. 96+ (EB)