The Hilt's 2015 Pinot Noir Vanguard is deep, unctuous and super-concentrated on the palate. A rich, seamless Pinot, the Vanguard is shaping up to be utterly magnificent. Black cherry jam, menthol, spices and new leather are all fused together in a super-ripe, powerful Pinot bursting at the seams with potential. The 2014 is Sanford & Benedict, Radian and Bentrock, done with fully destemmed fruit.

Pale to medium ruby-purple colored, the 2015 Pinot Noir Vanguard leaps from the glass with frisky Bing cherries, pomegranate and fresh cranberry notes plus hints of violets, cinnamon stick and fallen leaves. Medium-bodied, the palate gives a great intensity of crunchy, vibrant red berry flavors, framed by lovely ripe, grainy tannins and beautiful freshness, finishing long and perfumed.