Review: 2017 FEL Pinot Gris and 2016 Pinot Noir
The winery formerly known as Breggo continues its releases of Anderson Valley-focused bottlings, with these two offerings the latest in the lineup.
2017 FEL Pinot Gris Anderson Valley – This wine is slightly tropical in aromatic approach, but it’s weighted down by heavy greenery notes, which give the palate a muddy body and a tight, almost astringent conclusion. The brightness of a great pinot gris is lacking here, with funky, earthy notes taking the center stage. B / $27
2016 FEL Pinot Noir Anderson Valley – Initially on the tight side, this wine opens up with just a little bit of air to reveal a sunburst of fruit — cherries, blackberry, and a lingering vanilla-chocolate note. It settles down so well that its drinkability becomes downright dangerous, though you still catch hints of leather and roasted meat on the nose, adding complexity to an otherwise fruit-forward experience. Proof that FEL has really upped their game in the world of pinot in recent years. A / $35