Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir "Sanford & Benedict"

2017 - "The 2017 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is a singular, gorgeous wine, made from the second set of vines planted on the site, with about 50% whole cluster. "The really old vines are planted east-west, so I don't like those," says Jim Clendenen. "We don't use much whole cluster anymore, but that's what gives this its spice." Pale to medium ruby, it has a nose of perfumed red and black cherries, star anise and tree bark, feeling a touch youthfully reticent. The palate is silky and expansive with nuanced, spice-laced flavor layers energized by lip-smacking acidity, and it finishes very long and nuanced. Only 90 cases were made."--95+pts Wine Advocate