Like cracking open an ashen stone to find a bevy of autumnal spices, incense, dried citrus peels and sage, the 2021 Pinot Noir Freedom Hill Vineyard makes itself known in the glass. This is silky and enveloping, nearly weighty in feel, matched by depths of ripe red and blue fruits that swirl across a stream of tantalizing acidity. Sweet mineral tones form a crunchy sensation toward the close as the 2021 leaves the palate reeling with spicy tension, tapering off tannic yet fresh. If you choose to pop the 2021 today, make sure to give it a good decant to allow its aromatics to fully open.

Balanced and packed with lively acidity, the Freedom Hill will revive the most jaded palate. Its aromas of blackberries, cherry blossoms, wet stones and seared steak are a meal, followed by a main course of dark raspberry, bay leaf, blood orange, cedar flavors and velvety tannins. Enjoy with grilled portobellos.