The Star 2021 is a youthful, medium blue-red and is transparent in a way that belies its richness. As always, the Star is my most detailed and beautifully subtle block at Maresh: maybe it’s because of Jim Maresh Sr.’s favourite cherry tree that used to grow there, or maybe it’s because of the Star of Bethlehem flowers that illuminate the vine rows. True to the classic Maresh character, though, the nose and mouth are filled with Oregon strawberries and hints of spice and soft minerals. With this one, there’s a profound depth and sweet, ripe cherry energy behind it all.  The frame balances the fruit, giving it tension. The texture has the drape of silk with no heaviness. Only winged verticality. The finish is long. This is my final bottling of this beloved block and I’ll deeply miss it. Important moments of my life have been here in this place.