Wine Spectator – September 2024 Issue

California Pinot Noir

Aubert’s Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast UV-SL Vineyard 2022 is one of the vintage’s highest scorers. The wine displays both richness and tension—not an easy feat in this generally softer, more forward-style vintage—that help to set it apart from the pack.—James Molesworth

2022 Aubert Pinot Noir CIX Estate Vineyard Sonoma Coast
Score: 93

A rich and well-filled-in version, particularly for the vintage, offering steeped black cherry and blackberry fruit laced with hints of menthol, chaparral and singed vanilla. Not shy with the toast on the finish but offers the fruit to handle it. Shows impressive breadth and depth for a ’22. Drink now through 2032.—J.M.

2022 Aubert Pinot Noir UV Vineyard Sonoma Coast
Score: 95

Ripe and defined, offering a mix of raspberry, black cherry and boysenberry reduction notes scored with bramble, warm earth, menthol and sweet spice details. This impressive, well-structured version is holding back for now, with underlying energy and a solid finishing kick of fruit that should allow this to unfurl slowly in the cellar. Best from 2027 through 2035.—J.M.

2022 Aubert Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard Sonoma Coast
Score: 96

An impressive wave of raspberry, boysenberry and mulberry fruit paste flavors cruises through, while singed anise, warm earth, black tea and briar hints fill in along the way. Displays richness and tension — not an easy feat in this vintage — and a long, sapid finish. Built for the cellar. Best from 2026 through 2038.—J.M.