The Data

Country   USA

Appellation   Anderson Valley

Varietal   Pinot Noir

Retail Price   $59

ABV   14.56%

Score   5 Stars/97 points

In the Glass

Brilliant, deep ruby color.

The aromatics are very intense offering scents of raspberry, black tea, and forest floor with supporting notes of hibiscus flower, graphite, a unique minerality, oak, and hints of wild mint.

The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of black cherry, five spice, mineral, and vanilla. The finish is long and lingering with ripe tannins and sweet oak tones.

Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced with an opulent yet vibrant texture.

Cool Factor

Vintage after vintage Tongue Dancer never fails to impress as their Pinots are ultra balanced and full of flavor and personality making it very cool.

Value Grade

Have you heard that Pinot Noir is expensive? Sure you have. The Tongue Dancer Wines have proven their worth being stylish and complex, as well as being ultra rare (just two barrels made).

Analysis

The third vintage of "The Sly One" is a winner albeit an unexpected palate sensation. The first two vintages of The Sly One featured Sonoma Coast fruit. Before opening the bottle I assumed that this was still the case — I was wrong. For the 2019 vintage of the The Sly One they pulled a sly one and made a stupendous Pinot from Grant Family Vineyards, Philo, in Anderson Valley. This vineyard features three clones: 115, 667, and 777, a selection of Dijon clones. The wines rested in French oak for 16 months and was bottled in February of 2021. Now we know the identity of this super hero — The Sly One is James MacPhail and his deep knowledge of Pinot, California appellations, and the top growers in the business. The decision to use this create fruit came with a price, there are only two barrels of this delightful nectar. The release date is September 6 so be sure to get your bottles fast as they will surely be gone in short order.

How to Enjoy

This wine needs nothing but a glass but it really loves grilled meats. Be sure to decant this gem to get the full aromatic and flavor experience.