2010 Williams Selyem Allen Vineyard Pinot Noir [CG95][WE94][V92+]

Producer: Williams Selyem Winery  
Region: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California 
Varietal: Pinot Noir  
Year: 2010 

Connoisseurs Guide, 95 Points 

"Choosing a favorite from the Williams Selyem lineup is a difficult, if wholly, enjoyable task most every year, and, in 2010, picking becomes harder yet as there are so many successes from which to choose. Still, this extraordinarily deep and perfectly balanced bottling rises with the cream to the top, and its impressions of polish and controlled potency are the stuff of greatness. It is already complex but not nearly so much as it will be later on, and it is in all ways a collectable wine that belongs in the cellar of every dyed-in-the-wool devotee of fine California Pinot Noir. *Three Stars*" 

Wine Enthusiast, 94 Points 

"Somewhat aloof now, this has grippy tannins that lock down the palate. Underneath the grip are complex flavors of juicy blackberry, plum sauce and exotic spice, with brooding earthy notes and sweet, smoky oak tones. Very fine, but one for the cellar. Give it at least 6–8 years, and it could easily go for another decade beyond that, gradually becoming more delicate, supple and complex. *Cellar Selection*" 

Vinous, 92+ Points 

"Inviting perfume of black cherry, dark chocolate and dried flowers. Intense, sappy wine with a distinct youthful firmness to its flavors of dark fruits and licorice. Finishes very long and gripping, with an element of redder fruits providing lift. The tannins are ripe but the wine nonetheless conveys a slightly aggressive youthfulness, suggesting that it still needs time to express itself. From a cool season, but still picked in August before a heat spike at the beginning of September and late rains. This may be passing through a sullen stage; I suspect it will eventually merit an even higher rating." 

Alcohol: 14.1% 

*Discounts do not apply to items like this one in the Fine & Rare category. Price and availability in store may vary.