Occidental Bodega Headlands Cuvée Elizabeth - Pinot Noir 2017

One of my favorites in the lineup (but we are splitting hairs), the 2017 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Vineyard Cuvee Elizabeth comes from the estate vineyard located around the estate, lying at 400 to 750 feet in elevation. Mostly potential at this point, its dense purple hue is followed by incredibly pure notes of black raspberries, mulberries, pine forest, spring flowers, and an almost iodine/seaside-like salinity and minerality. Medium to full-bodied, with bright acidity, it’s an energetic, racy yet brilliantly balanced, lengthy Pinot Noir that’s going to benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and keep for a decade. This is another thrilling wine from Steve Kistler and family.

Medium ruby, the 2017 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvée Elizabeth has deep aromas of cranberry sauce, blood orange peel, charcuterie, saline, tar and licorice. In the mouth, it’s medium-bodied with a bit more fruity flesh than its 2016 counterpart while still maintaining its pleasant core of bitterness. It has a crunchy, fresh fruit character with bright bitter sparks, a grainy frame and great freshness, finishing long and mineral driven.

Aromas of blackberry and plum with strawberries and flowers. Full body, round and silky with a bright acidity. Citrusy undertone. Love the finish to this. Focused and precise. Orange peel and salt. Better in 2020 yet already a beauty.