93 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2023 Pinot Noir Freestone Vineyards contains 34% grower fruit. Matured for 10 months in 34% new French oak, it has open, inviting scents of rhubarb, red and black plum, woodsmoke, juniper and mushroom. The medium-bodied palate is concentrated and spicy with silky tannins. It’s balanced by mouthwatering acidity and has a long, layered finish. 4,625 cases were made.
92 Points Wine Spectator
There’s youthful juiciness to this red’s core of cherry and pomegranate, while threads of red tea and singed anise race through. Gets a kiss of toast on the finish but lets the fruit keep the upper hand. Drink now through 2030. 4,625 cases made.
90 Points Jeb Dunnuck
A bright medium red color, they destemmed entirely for this wine in 2023. The 2023 Pinot Noir Freestone Vineyard is elegant and pretty, with refreshing acidity, fine tannins, and a clean saltiness. It has attractive cherry fruit with very clean lift and spice on the close. Drink now or over the coming 5-6 years. Drink 2026-2032.
Winemaker Notes
Produced since 2005, the Joseph Phelps Freestone Vineyards Pinot Noir represents the "True" Sonoma Coast wine movement. In the late 1990's, a search for vineyards led Joseph Phelps Vineyards further West to the town of Freestone on the Sonoma Coast, where few vineyards existed at the time. The 2023 Pinot Noir Freestone Vineyards has layered aromas of pomegranate, rhubarb, hibiscus and clove, plus undertones of mushroom and forest floor. The medium-bodied palate offers generous layers of fruit and oak spice that lure you back to the glass for another sip. It’s structured by silky tannins and lip-smacking acidity and has a long, pure finish. 4,522 cases produced.
