2009 Williams Selyem "Westside Road Neighbors" Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
SKU #1091980
95 points
Connoisseurs Guide
The release of this wine along with Williams Selyem's appellation bottlings might suggest that the winery sees it as one of its early maturing wines, but if that be the case, then we must respectfully disagree. This wine is slow to unfold in the glass, and despite the sweet, ripe character that emerges, it is also a wine that falls in distinct sections at this point. Its pulpy fruit reminiscent of dried cherries and raspberry preserves leads to an initially mouthfilling, viscous impression but also to flavors that are more than a little on the tight side and demand time in the cellar. Be patient; the wait will be rewarded. *Three Stars*
(6/2011)
93 points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Vivid ruby-red. Heady, intensely perfumed scents of raspberry and cherry preserves, sandalwood, dried rose and gingerbread. At once precise and deep, offering sweet red and dark fruit flavors lifted by tangy acidity, with silky tannins providing support. This tactile, palate-staining, lively midweight finishes with excellent definition and lingering spiciness. (ST)
(6/2011)
92 points
James Suckling
Nose of black cherry and plum. A full-bodied wine with very pretty tannins. Shows hints of chamomile tea with a long finish. Dark plums. A fruitier style but not overtly so.
(6/2012)
92 points
Wine Enthusiast
A rich, spicy wine, marked by cinnamon and clove-accented raspberries, cherries, cola and mushrooms, as well as a bit of funk. Lovely and complex, it’s a blend of various vineyards whose fruit Williams Selyem sources in the northwestern Russian River Valley.
(8/2011)
91 points
Wine Spectator
Very complete, complex and balanced, with subtle cherry, plum and raspberry fruit that's supple and graceful. Medium- to full-bodied, gaining depth and richness on the finish, where the flavors linger. (JL)
(10/2011)
