Aubert 2022 Pinot Noir “CIX” Sonoma Coast 99 Points

Mark Aubert Notes: “The 2022 CIX Pinot Noir is sanguine and cerebral, unfurling with aromas of fresh blackberries, boysenberry, and violet above a backdrop of incense and oolong tea. On the palate, brambly fruits intermingle with mint and cedar in a complex balance of sweet and savory tones. The wine is rich and mouth-coating while possessing a chiseled, balanced framework. Such structural completeness is only achievable with old vines on this special, volcanic terroir. The rare degree of focus in aroma, flavor, and texture is a surefire promise of graceful cellaring for years to come.”

James Suckling 99 Points: “Aromas of blackberries, black cherries, lavender, lemon peel, and dark tobacco, with hints of oyster shells, dried seaweed, and iodine. Full yet nicely hemmed with ripe tuna belly and seaweed character. It’s decadent with notes of umami. Love this. Give this three to four years to mellow slightly, but it is so fascinating to drink now.”

Robert Parker 97 Points: “Aubert’s 2022 Pinot Noir CIX Estate delivers complex, mouthwatering waves of black cherries, accented by notes of roses and black tea. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, and silky, the wine boasts awesome length and tremendous intensity without excess weight. Hints of tobacco, tea leaves, and sous-bois bring additional complexity to the lingering finish. This is the real deal. According to Aubert, the light-hued soil seems to keep the vineyard cooler, which may help account for its success in this warm vintage.”

Vinous 96 Points: “The 2022 Pinot Noir CIX Vineyard is fabulous. Dark, vibrant and vertical in feel, the 2022 offers a compelling mix of dark-toned fruit, menthol, cloves, licorice and incense. The CIX is dynamic and bursting with flavor. It is the most potent and virile wine in the range, and also the last to be picked. The clonal mix is Calera and Vosne-Romanée, with a touch of Swan.”