Argot, 'Bastard Tongue' Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, California, 2020

Overview of the Wine
'Argot' refers to a shared language, borne from, and reinforcing the intimacy associated with tight-knit groups, whom are brought together by their common interests and shared histories:

"Each significant relationship in life gives rise to an 'argot' among the members who define it. The deeper the bond, and longer its history, this argot’s vocabulary becomes more personal, allowing it to strengthen and enhance the dynamic. When opening a bottle of wine, so too is opened the flow of conversation and ability to connect. Throughout human history wine has been used for worship, celebration, mourning and, more simply, sharing life. The wine brand Argot honors the beautiful symmetry and complementary nature that wine and communication hold. Round up a friend, pull a cork, splash a glass, and enjoy."

Argot was created by winemaker Justin Harmon in 2007. Justin fell in love with wine as a consumer, and his education in chemical engineering drew him into the winemaking process. He began experimenting in his parent's Chicago basement, using a kit and then flash-frozen grapes brought in by rail car from Napa, then moved to California for his first harvest work in 2005. After harvest internships in 2006 & 2007, Justin bought his first ton of grapes & began the Argot project.

Argot is dedicated to crafting small lots from Sonoma County at the highest quality level. Annual production is small at 2,500 9-liter cases.

Sustainably farmed. Sourced from both high-elevation and valley floor vineyards, located in the cool climate AVAs of Sonoma Mountain, Bennett Valley and Petaluma Gap.

Grape / Blend
100% Pinot Noir

Origin
Sonoma County, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
An unmistakable Pinot perfume explodes from the glass, pure and transparent — rich red-fruits; accentuated by Bastard Tongue’s tell-tale loam, spice and black tea. Weightless textures envelop the palate, boldly delivering a cascade of flavor that mirror the nose, while remaining the picture of sophistication in its long, ethereal finish. An energetic bottling of the BT that perfectly captures the essence of the vintage.

95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck (2018)
A more limited production cuvée, the 2018 Pinot Noir Bastard Tongue is a big, ripe, sexy beast of a Pinot Noir delivering loads of black cherry and black raspberry fruit intermixed with plenty of spring flowers, sappy herb, and forest-like nuances. Full-bodied, it has a hedonistic, sweetly fruited style, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It doesn’t pull any punches yet stays balanced, textured, and a joy to drink. It should keep for 5-7 years or so.

Product size: 750ml