Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Eastside Road Neighbors 2016

This crowd-pleaser is the product of hand-selected vineyards on the eastern bank of the Russian River. On the nose, a gamut of black fruits and plum mix with aromas of cedar shavings and dried herbs, while notes of elderberry and elderflower add additional intrigue. All sorts of berry flavors excite the palate and are lifted with citrus and impressions of black tea. The tannins are voluminous, refined and finish with a gravelly texture.

One of the many highlights in this range, the 2016 Pinot Noir Eastside Road Neighbors is going to need a few years in bottle to shed some of its formidable tannin. Powerful and yet also engaging, the 2016 is likely to enjoy a long life once it softens a bit. Exotic spice, Christmas cake, star anise, rosewater and orange peel add myriad shades of nuance to the exotic dark fruit. Patience will be rewarded.