2019 Rhys Vineyards Pinot Noir

100% biodynamic (uncertified) Pinot Noir from three estate vineyards: Mt. Pajaro, Alpine and Horseshoe. Hand harvested and fermented with native yeasts. 12% whole cluster grapes were cold soaked for 5 days. They were foot trodden as well twice a day during fermentation. Aged 18 months in 25% new French oak. 15 of those months was on the lees. 13.9% alcohol.

93 points, Wine Advocate. ""The 2019 Alesia Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains is a beaming, focused demonstration of Rhys's winemaking style. Aromas of Bing cherry, petrichor and rose petals eagerly waft from the glass. The palate is textural and focused, with an intense, high-toned structure and a long, layered finish. While this is a sturdier showing from Alesia, it nevertheless provides a wonderful platform on which to glimpse the Rhys style without the cellaring necessary for the single-vineyard releases."

92 points, Jeb Dunnuck. "The 2019 Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains Alesia, which comes all from the Santa Cruz Mountains, is well worth checking out for readers looking to understand the style of this estate. Spiced red and black fruits, savory herbs, and loamy earth are just some of the nuances in this charming, medium-bodied, balanced Pinot Noir. The tannins aren't quite as polished or integrated as in the single vineyard, but it's beautifully balanced and certainly has classic Rhys character. It should drink well for 5-6 years or more."