2009 Ampelos Pinot Noir Rho

Community Tasting Notes (10) Avg Score: 90.6 points

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  9/14/2023 - timewithwine wrote:

  The Ampelos Rho is my favorite cuvée from this winery, so perhaps I expect more from this bottling and that expectation colored my impression of this particular wine. Definite black cherry, cola and Asian five spice on the attack that then carries the length to the end of the finish. Perhaps some lavender as well. A dose of vanilla segues from the cola on the finish, too. Despite those pleasure, this bottle unfortunately showed heat across the length of the palate. The tannins are round but the heat continues to be a distraction. 14.7% alc. With roasted salmon (under mustard-herb glaze) niçoise. 09.14.23. While other bottles of the ’09 have been “Recommended”, this particular bottle is “Recommended with Reservations”.

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  6/8/2023 - timewithwine Likes this wine:

  The consistency of Ampelos’ Rho cuvée continues with lush black cherry, cola, a touch of lavender and a bit of vanilla. While not a “dense” wine, it delivers a hefty mouthfeel. The fruit is ripe but not overdone and at 14 years out shows no signs of fading. Round tannins make the mouthfeel that much more enjoyable; very smooth. 14.7% alc. With grilled ahi tuna. 06.08.22. Recommended.

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  3/10/2023 - bdhanna Likes this wine: 91 Points

  Still in a great spot !! At peak !! I agree with my tasting note of 18 months ago !!
  The composite cork was easily removed after over a decade in the bottle. This balanced Pinot Noir was consumed over two days. Ruby color with little to no oxidation, clarity good. Aromas of cranberry and pomegranate, silky flavors of bing cherry, rhubarb, and marine soil and a pleasant medium to long finish. Great fruit made into a balanced Pinot Noir from the estate in the Santa Rita Hills appellation of Santa Barbara County. Great winemaking from Peter & Rebecca Work at ampelos. This Pinot Noir is an age worthy wine and may have many more years of life left. I have no more bottles of this vintage remaining.

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  6/16/2022 - timewithwine Likes this wine:

  Distinct black cherry, cola, vanilla and a finish of lavender and vanilla. How much longer the fruit will last on this is anyone’s guess, but I suspect it will carry a good ways further. Although the tannins may be close to being fully resolved, there is enough grip to project this wine well into the future. Nevertheless, the mouthfeel is very smooth. 14.7% alc. With roasted pork loin under mustard crust; a delightful pairing. 06.16.22. Recommended.

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  3/27/2022 - Nothung Likes this wine: 91 Points

  A beautiful CA central coast Pinot

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