FEL Pinot Noir Anderson Valley 2018

Wine Enthusiast 96 points - Aromatic but also nervy and restrained at first sip, this tightly wound wine has a classic profile of brisk acidity and fine-grained tannins to support vivid and concentrated rhubarb, red cherry and oolong-tea flavors. It is built to age gracefully. 

Fruit for FEL’s Pinot comes from three vineyards in the Anderson Valley. The wine ages 16 months in French oak barrels, about one-third new. The result is rubescent with a spicy profile: cinnamon, star anise, Chinese five spice. But there is also plenty of fruit, which tilts toward woodsy brambles and black cherries. Solid acidity amplifies the spice notes.

It’s a good wine for rich and earthy cheeses, especially washed rind, as their creamy texture will be a counterpoint to the wine’s acidity. Try it with rich pâtés, cured meats, lamb and richer cuts of pork, especially smoked or barbecued.