From a small, narrow vineyard aptly named The Tongue, Beaux Frères 2015 Gran Moriane Pinot Noir is made from Dijon clones planted in transitional volcanic marine uplift. Coastal influence has graced it with lavish aromas of ripe blue fruit, black raspberries, underbrush, lilacs, and a dusting of cocoa powder. The profile is more masculine in expression—the interplay of acid and fine tannins lend focus, a center of gravity, even as buoyant shards of flecked and ancient siltstone dance and shimmer on the palate. The finish, one of smoky minerality, cacao nibs, and warm spice. Sample
94 Points
Note: My firm, Cascadia Fine Wines represents Beaux Frères in Asia.