A blend of six clones, Maude's 2016 Pinot Noir was partially destemmed and aged in 30% new French oak for ten months. It has ample herb notes on the nose of thyme and tea leaves, plus red fruit and a hint of flower blossoms. It's medium to full-bodied, with supple tannins that flow easily across the palate, up until the finish, where they reveal a bit of astringency. It's a complex, enjoyable Pinot to drink over the next 7-8 years.

This starts off nicely enough, with hints of cherries, rose petals and cedar, but the promise isn’t quite fulfilled on the palate, which is lightweight and simple, with cedar- and coffee-tinged oak gradually taking over. ——J.C.(4/1/2011)—— 84