Foxen makes some of our favorite Central Coast PinotNoirs. We opened a bottle of their 2003 BienNacido Vineyard - Block Eight Santa Maria Valley PinotNoir a few night ago, and got to enjoy it close to, or at, its peak.
The grapes are 100% destemmed prior to enjoying five days of cold soak. They then go through whole berry fermentation before being aged in 65% new French oak for 16 months. Finally it is bottled unfined and unfiltered.
The result is a Pinot with a clear, dark, ruby red/purple color in the glass.
On the nose; dark raspberry, cherry, vanilla, and earthy components.
On the plate the wine shows of raspberry, cherry, and plum with a hint of spice and vanilla. It is a harmonic, balanced, and concentrated, medium to full bodied Pinot, that receives a lift from the fresh acidity and slight edge to the tannins. Drinks beautifully right now. Unfortunately this was the last bottle I pulled out of our stash...
Looks like it is still available at Vinfolio.comfor $42. Check it out if you want to have a sip of this star this spring.
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