An estate vineyard situated closer to the ocean and thus slightly cooler than the other Freestone vineyards, the 2009 Quarter Moon exhibits an unusual (for pinot noir) white pepper spice nuance that dramatically distinguishes it from other Freestone pinots. This beautifully structured wine shows aromas of red and black fruits and a savory, earthy note. It is extraordinarily well balanced (alcohol by volume is low by modern California standards at 13.5) and exceptionally long on the palate. Without a doubt the finest California pinot I have tasted this year. I would not hesitate to cellar this wine for 10 years or more.
Freestone, Sonoma Coast (Sonoma County, California) Pinot Noir 2009
By Robert Whitley