The 2011 Pinot Noir Bergstrom Vineyard is unusually dark berry-fruited as well as metaphorically sinister for its vintage. But sassafras, ginger, tamarind, iris root, and orange rind contribute piquant spiciness that I associate with 2011. Densely yet finely tannic and with refreshing juiciness, this sappy concentrate finishes with gripping, almost indelible piquancy as well as sizzling invigoration and mouthwatering salinity. I suspect it will merit attention through at least 2024. - David Schildknecht

The best of the 2011 Pinots from Bergström, this firm and balanced wine is based upon a solid core of raspberry and cherry fruit. Nicely framing the ripe fruit flavors are streaks of herb, leaf and stem, all in proportion with not a hint of bitterness. A lick of orange peel elevates the finish.

A brooding nose of briar, earth, underbrush and dark currant introduces round, delicious and supple medium-bodied flavors that possess good mid-palate density, all wrapped in a dusty and mildly austere finish. This will need a few years to be at its best but the underlying material is certainly present for this to reward mid-term cellaring. Outstanding ♥