Benton-Lane Pinot Noir FIRST CLASS 2014 750ml

Before tasting this wine, it is important to note its incredible color. It’s a beautiful dark ruby red with a slight hint of blue – reminiscent of the beautiful tail light lenses on 1940’s vintage cars.

The aromas swirl around in the glass and blend together. The fruit notes are candied cranberry and cassis, then rich vanilla from the toasted white oak, and a rich earth or mushroom aroma.

The wine is definitely full flavored, but without imposing tannins. The predominant flavors are cranberry and fig fruit notes on a mocha framework. The rose petal notes, sweet rich earth and fresh cracked pepper flavors that seem to get along beautifully. Note the flash of tangerine in the finish. This is a youngster of a wine that will keep on showing new stuff for a long, long time.

Expert Review

James Suckling 91 Points | Extremely aromatic with strawberries, cedar, tea and light caramel. Medium to full body, fine tannins and a fruity finish – yet this always remains reserved and refined. Drink or hold. (2014).