Generously shared by Janie Brooks during this week’s SOMM reunion, the 2003 Rastabon was her brother, Jimi’s first and last vintage produced under the Rastaban label. A significant wine to share, because Jimi passed away in 2004, and Janie stepped in to keep Brooks winery and Jimi’s vision going (if you’re not familiar with the Brooks’ moving story, do watch the feature documentary, American Wine Story). Thirteen years on, this outstanding Willamette Valley Pinot is slightly brickish and unfiltered given the amount of sediment in the bottle and in my glass, and possesses evolved sweet and savory aromatics, like brussels sprouts cooked in bacon lardons, iron ore and dusty plums. There is yet sweet fruit at the core, all red berries, and lovely sueded texture. Bravo, Jimi. Sample
9.1 Points