Aston Estate was founded in 2001 by Fred Schrader, founder of Schrader Cellars, Chuck Sweeney, co-founder of Vine Cliff and Thomas Rivers-Brown. Earlier this year TRB bought out the other two founders and became the sole owner. Aston Estate is located near the remote township of Annapolis, approximately five miles from the coast.
I was on the mailing list early on but dropped off at some point. I signed back up after TRB finalized the purchase because he has always been one of my favorite Pinot Noir winemakers.
Dark red in color. 14.2% ABV. Brooding nose of dark fruits, citrus and forest floor. Full bodied with perfect acidity. Rich, concentrated and bursting with dark fruits. Impeccable balance. Black cherry, rhubarb, blood orange and earth on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Delicious Pinot Noir that stands apart from the Rivers Marie lineup. I’ll have room in my cellar for both. Best over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 94 points.
The winery is still accepting names for their mailing list. Super wines from an incredible vineyard that are fairly priced. Lots to like here.
Great review–will open my bottle this weekend! Curious about the 2018 white label “Estate” wine–for a lower price tag.
It is a little convoluted. I posed this question on WineBerserkers and it was answered by Will Segui.