Dappled Champs des Cerises Pinot Noir 2024

“This Pinot is deep ruby red with brilliant clarity and aromas of black cherry, cranberries, cola root, and spice. With time, more undergrowth and savage characters come to the fore. The palate has a core of red fruits and gentle oak spices that lead to a structured and generous finish that I haven’t seen in the wine since the 22’ vintage. ” – Dappled Wines

Dappled light. Dappled horses. That’s what I think of mainly when I read that word. Anyway, Shaun Crinion has a sure touch in the winery, and he keeps his wines on the affordable side too.

Red cherry, strawberry, spice, mint and amaro, dried roses, blonde tobacco, a slight praline richness too. It’s medium-bodied at most, spicy, a little sappy, strawberry and milk chocolate, a gentle grip of fine dusty tannin, a subtle Campari tang, with a cool and fine finish of excellent length. Such a pleasing wine for its spice and juicy red-fruited zip. Lovely from start to finish.

95 pts, Gary Walsh, The Wine Front