Essence Pinot Noir 2010

2010 is the second vintage of Jean Pierre Colas' 'Essence' pinot noir. This appears curiously less forward and ripe than the 2009, which was a much cooler vintage, and delivers fresh, crisp, red apple, strawberry leaf, red cherry fruit, light cinnamon spice, still quite closed and tight. The palate is still a little rough and tumble, with fine-grained but very grippy and structured tannins, bright acids and very good length. A little less immediately appealing than the first edition, but all in all better structured wine, firm and well balanced, with better ageing aptitude - for fans of traditional, old world style pinots - more classic Burgundian profile. I'd tuck this into the cellar for another 2-3 years to reach full potential. Score - 91. (John Szabo, M.S., winealign.com, Jan. 12, 2013)