From a site close to Occidental, just five miles from the ocean, the 2021 Pinot Noir UV-SL comes from what is presently Aubert's coolest site for Pinot Noir, and it's the one with the most volcanic soil influence. There are a substantial 1,200 cases of this beauty, which kicks off with notes of alpine strawberries and lovely, almost garrigue-like notions. It's delicate yet also the most generous and full-bodied of the three Pinot Noirs, with voluminous, silky tannins and terrific length and elegance married to a tense, wiry structure and intense fruit. Wow.

The 2021 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard is bright, punchy and super-expressive. Bright red/plum, blood orange, rose petal, lavender, spice and strong floral/savory accents add nuance throughout. The 2021 is an absolute joy to taste. The UV was done with entirely destemmed fruit, but its aromatic profile offers quite a bit of whole cluster-like character.