2018 Brittan "Cygnus" McMinnville Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Insider's Advantage
97RP
94IWR
94VN
94WE
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97
Wine Advocate
Reviewed August 2023The ‘Cygnus Block’ is a southeast facing site in the Brittan Estate Vineyard that was planted in 2008 to Swan selection, a selection of Pinot Noir they believe was brought in from Burgundy around the 1880s and planted in California. Once on the nose this takes on wonderfully stony tones alongside black tea, blood orange zest, huckleberry and salty undertones. The palate is complex and delicious with a seriously good range from red and dark fruits to wet stone, Umami and citrus fruits. Delightful to savor in its youth, be sure to give this at least a one hour decant if enjoying anytime soon. Drink 2021-2038. (EB)
Professional Reviews
94
Int'l Wine Review
A gorgeous medium neon ruby in the glass, the 2018 Cygnus Block is made from an unusual clone of Pinot Noir named “Swan” and is aged for 12 months in 25% new French oak barrels. Luscious black cherry, wild huckleberry, toasted clove, brown sugar, dried pine needle, and lemon pith make a lovely combination of aromas and flavors. Tannins are still a bit chalky, but the mouthwatering acidity, and gorgeous fruit and spice notes, balance everything out nicely. Just 234 cases made. (JY)
94
Vinous
Shimmering ruby-red. Highly perfumed, smoke-tinged cherry and blackberry scents are complemented by suggestions of candied rose and succulent herbs. Concentrated yet lively bitter cherry, dark berry and spicecake flavors pick up licorice and cola flourishes with aeration. Closes very long and gently chewy, with repeating floral and cherry notes and a late suggestion of licorice. All Swan clone (hence “Cygnus”) and 25% new French oak. (JR)
94
Wine Enthusiast
Complex from the get-go, this marries brambly red fruits to light streaks of caramel, toasted hazelnuts and buttery toast. It’s made from the unusual Swan clone, a California import that dates from the 1800s. Robert Brittan planted three acres of it in 2008 at his estate vineyard. The flavors are unique and persistent, with underlying minerality and lovely texture. One-quarter was aged in new French oak. (PG)
Details
| Origin | Oregon, United States |
|---|---|
| Type/Varietal | Pinot Noir |
| SKU | 1697700 |