95 Points James Suckling "…a very impressive pinot that has a spirited, lively style with abundantly fresh and fleshy red cherries, as well as dark peaches and nectarines."

94 Points Vinous “Deep magenta. Expansive red and blue fruit, floral and spice scents are underscored by emerging mineral and succulent herb flourishes. Firm and focused in the mouth, offering bitter cherry, boysenberry, candied rose and cola flavors that unfurl steadily through the midpalate.”

WINEMAKER TASTING NOTES
The wine is a clear and bright ruby in the glass. Momtazi produces expressive and characterful wines, and the 2017 vintage has vivid aromas of crushed sugared blackberry, passionfruit, pine sap, and plum on the nose. Very upright, linear acidity undergirds the generous palate weight. A very structured wine which will benefit from a decade or more of cellaring. In the mouth, it is condensed, tight by some aspects, yet seductive. The finish is very long, some may find it severe, most will get an impression of liveliness.

STATS

• Harvested: October 5th, 2017
• Harvest Brix: 22.3
• Alcohol: 13.5%
• TA: 5.3g/L
• pH: 3.54
• Cooperage:
• 50% new French oak
• 50% neutral oak
• Date bottled: February 1st, 2019
• Cases made: 121
• Winemakers: Jean-Nicolas Méo and Tracy Kendall