There’s quite a bit of tasty, well made Pinot Noir emerging from Mendocino County. Many of the noteworthy offerings are from family owned, boutique wineries making small amounts of wine. Masút Vineyards and Winery, which was founded by third generation vintners Ben and Jacob Fetzer, fits that description. This wine is dedicated to their Dad who passed away in 2006. Today I’ll look at their inaugural release of Estate Pinot Noir.
The Masút Vineyards and Winery 2009 Pinot Noir was produced from fruit sourced at Ben and Jake Fetzer’s Estate Vineyard in Mendocino California. Three clones of Pinot Noir (777, 115, and 113) were used. Their vineyard in the family tradition is certified organic. Barrel aging took place in French oak, 55% of the barrels were new. 1,700 six-pack cases of this wine were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $40.
Aromas of cherry and wild strawberry dominate the nose of this 2009 Pinot Noir. Hints of mushroom and vanilla play supporting aromatic roles. Black cherry fruit is prominent throughout the palate along with lighter flourishes of plum and black raspberry. Lots of spice notes appear as well with clove, nutmeg and cardamom the most prominent. Black tea, minerals and earth notes are all apparent in the finish which has excellent length, and depth of flavor. This is a Pinot Noir that will pair as beautifully with a wide of foods as it will drink on its own.
This introductory release from Masút is impressive and speaks well to the quality products we can expect from them on a go forward basis. If you’re a Pinot Noir lover, this is a release you should go out of your way to seek out.