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97 WA. "One of the top Pinot Noirs in this report, Melville’s 2012 Pinot Noir Block M saw the same vinification and elevage as the Terraces, with 80% whole cluster and 18 months in neutral oak. It’s a fabulous wine that gives up notions of ripe currants, plum, underbrush, caramelized meats and spice in its rich, voluptuous and decadently styled palate. The texture here is something, and yet it stays classy and pure, with blockbuster length. It’s hard to resist now, yet should evolve gracefully going forward. Hold onto your hats, as these latest releases from Chad Melville and winemaker Greg Brewer are off-the-charts good. While both of the Chardonnays are beautiful, and play in the clean, crisp and medium-bodied spectrum, it’s the 2012 Pinot Noirs and Syrahs that are incredible across the board. The Pinot Noirs all see varying degrees of whole cluster and are aged completely in neutral French oak barrels. The Syrahs see slightly less whole cluster inclusion, but are also aged all in neutral French oak. In case you missed the prices/scores listed above, these are some of the greatest values in the world of wine today." Wine Advocate #214, Aug 2014 |