Notes of dark cherry and raspberry saturate the nose along with a touch of citrus and rosemary. There is a freshness on the nose, a characteristic which is […]
Read More| TA | 0.63g/100mL |
|---|---|
| pH | 3.45 |
| Alc. | 13.8% |
| Barrel Description | 68% new, 32% 1 yr. |
|---|---|
| Barrel Aged | 16 months |
Notes of dark cherry and raspberry saturate the nose along with a touch of citrus and rosemary. There is a freshness on the nose, a characteristic which is typical of fruit grown on the Estate, while deep bass notes of baking spices add layers and complexity. On the palate, the wine is lithe with fresh acidity and red and black fruit flavors. A profile of minerals and crushed rocks gives length and induces a mouthcoating sensation on the palate. The Williams Selyem Estate is a wonderful parallel of power and elegancea classic in the making.
It was an auspicious start to the 2017 growing season with steady rain followed by dry spells which allowed for the soil profile to fill up progressively. The waterworks kicked into high gear in January at which point over 20 inches of rain had accumulated. That’s nearly double the historical average. 2017 was epic in many respects and at one point the Russian River waters touched Westside Road and the winery was waterfront property! As the waters receded and the soil dried up, temperatures moderated, and bud break ensued by mid-March. Steady rain through the vegetative cycle was balanced with days of brilliant sunshine which helped to grow green, healthy plants. The weather was very fine in May for the flowering period and ideal for the fruit set. As the season progressed there were periods of heat that occurred with some regularity. With plenty of water in the soil profile, the plants did not stress too much and physiological maturity continued at an accelerated pace. Due to the diversity in our vineyard sources, there is normally a natural spread in the pick dates. However, in 2017 there was compression of the harvest and many of the vineyards were ready in a short period of time. The process was nearly complete by the time the intense Labor Day heat wave hit and, thankfully, had concluded before the devastating wildfires in October. Through a Herculean effort in the vineyards and at the winery we were able to pick the grapes at the optimal time and preserve the freshness and acidity of the vintage. The consequent wines show a refinement to the tannin structure which will allow for early consumption but will age gracefully with mid-term cellaring. Through and through, the 2017 is an excellent vintage.
The 2017 Pinot Noir Williams Selyem Estate Vineyard is powerful and tightly wound, with less of the appeal found in most of these 2017s. That shouldn't be too much of an issue in another few years' time, but readers should plan on being patient. There is not much Russian River charm on display today. A.G.
Sleek, with lively and pure-tasting cherry, plum and currant flavors that are well-structured. Very minerally, featuring a fresh, crisp finish that lingers with spice and slate details, along with hints of licorice. Drink now through 2026. 663 cases made. — KM
Generous raspberry flavors lend this wine flesh while still allowing some transparency to the structure. It’s juicy and rich, with a violet-purple cast to the fruit. Pour it with smoked duck. Reviewed by Joshua Greene.
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