Soliste Cellars Pinot Noir Contrebande

An impressive expression of the grape. Big nose of cinnamon and clove, tight currants, and cedar. The palate follows through on those aromatic promises in powerful and elegant style, picking up some earthy cranberry along the way. Clean, shimmering, harmoniously balanced, and absolutely delicious. Possibly my favorite from the night's tasting.

This was much darker in the glass than the ’14 Grands Charmes opened earlier in the week. The nose was darker red fruits and lacked the sous bois. This was more in your face and lacked the elegance of the GC. Still a beautiful bottle, but suffers a bit in comparison.

Clear garnet. Aroma of black cherries, red berries and wood spice. Lightish body, with commanding flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and strawberry, all with bright acidity, then comes wood spice and a pencil minerality leading to a very long finish. It is elegant, balanced, intriguing, and harmonious. A delightful pinot to contemplate on its own or to pair with good food.