The 2019 Pinot Noir Clos Pepe Vineyard Ouest (previously called Clos Pepe #5 when it was reviewed from barrel) is a more supple, opulent wine yet it still packs plenty of structure. Framboise, candied flowers, mulled cherries, baking spices, and dried flower notes all define the bouquet, and it's beautifully balanced, with silky yet building tannins, a core of beautifully sweet fruit, and a great finish. It's certainly the more approachable of the two Sta. Rita Hills releases, yet I suspect it's going to evolve just as nicely as the Est cuvée given its balance. 

Deep and rich aromas of baked cherry, clove, chai and tiramisu are strong and commanding on the nose of this bottling. The chai and dessert-spice components play prominently on the palate, where a refreshing acidity and polished but still apparent tannins make for a textural treat.