18 Cobb PN Old Firs Block

95+ Wine AdvocateThe 2018 Pinot Noir Coastlands Vineyard Old Firs Block comes from vines planted in 1989. Various clones are planted on AXR1 rootstock, including Wadenswil, Pommard and Martini. Despite the rootstock, Ross Cobb notes that the vines are unaffected by phylloxera. "We are very isolated out here, and those old clones are doing fine." The vines produced a singular rendition in 2018, with alluring scents of pipe tobacco, dried orange peel and dusty earth and a core of pretty raspberry and blueberry fruit. The palate is bright and saline-focused at this early stage, expertly structured with shimmering acidity, silty tannins and an ethereal, spice-laced finish. It’s shy but hints at more to come, so give it 2-3 years in bottle.