Fruit for FEL’s Pinot comes from three vineyards in the Anderson Valley. The wine ages 16 months in French oak barrels, about one-third new. The result is rubescent with a spicy profile: cinnamon, star anise, Chinese five spice. But there is also plenty of fruit, which tilts toward woodsy brambles and black cherries. Solid acidity amplifies the spice notes.
It’s a good wine for rich and earthy cheeses, especially washed rind, as their creamy texture will be a counterpoint to the wine’s acidity. Try it with rich pâtés, cured meats, lamb and richer cuts of pork, especially smoked or barbecued.
2018 FEL Pinot Noir Anderson Valley
14.2% abv | $38 (sample)
