Melville 2021 Pinot Noir Terraces   

2021 Melville Pinot Noir Terraces Santa Rita Hills
San Francisco Wine Panel Score 97 Points

Terraces is a truly fine ager and in a sterling year like this one it could ultimately exceed our lofty expectations. The aromas of the 2021 are a concentrated medley of red cherry, red raspberry, pomegranate, whortleberry and blood orange steeped in a sweet-natured layering of dried red rose, Oolong tea, canela, woodsy spice and herbal suggestions. It is as gutsy-rich and piquantly fresh as expected on the palate, where polished yet significant tannins, zest and mineral underpinnings frame in flavors that are a bright mirror of the aromas. The finish is a lingering harmony of focused fruit and pretty spice, with fine concentration and a backbone that does not mar a delicious red fruit and spice package that never flags. Expect five to ten years of improvement, but don’t be afraid of it now. 595 cases produced.