Charles Smith Pinot Noir Wines of Substance 2021

Originating from the United States in the Washington region, specifically within the Columbia Valley AVA appellation, Wines of Substance 'Pn' Pinot Noir represents a distinctive, highly expressive, and modern approach to Pacific Northwest winemaking. Created by visionary winemaker Charles Smith, the Wines of Substance project aims to deliver single-varietal wines crafted with traditional small-batch techniques at exceptional value. The grapes are sourced from cool climate, high elevation vineyard sites across Washington State where gravelly, well draining soils allow Pinot Noir to flourish. Under the winemaking direction of Charles Smith and Brennan Leighton, the winemaking philosophy utilizes native yeast fermentation, 100% whole berry inclusion, gentle hand punch-downs, and maturation on fine lees in French oak barrels (approximately 25% new) for 12 months without fining or filtration. The result is an aromatic, fruit forward Pinot Noir that captures both cool climate tension and Washington fruit intensity.

Wine Description

The wine presents a brilliant, clear translucent ruby red colour with soft garnet reflections along the rim. An expressive, highly perfumed bouquet opens with noble aromas of ripe red cherry, wild raspberry, pomegranate, and red plum, interwoven with subtle notes of orange peel, dried rose petal, subtle forest floor, white pepper, and toasted cedar spice. On the palate, it is light-to-medium bodied, silken, and energetic, delivering concentrated flavours of fresh red berries, dark cherry curd, and saline mineral earth, all supported by a bright, mouthwatering spine of natural cool climate acidity. Framed by velvety, fine-grained tannins and a supple, seamless mid-palate structure, it concludes with a long, persistent finish marked by lingering red fruits, subtle savory spices, and a clean mineral grip. Composed of 100% Pinot Noir, it offers immediate drinking appeal along with cellaring potential over 3 to 6 years. Stylistically, it combines Washington fruit generosity, elegant whole-berry aromatics, and effortless food friendliness.