Sonoma Coast Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

A wine that blends fruit from seven vineyards and seven clones, this bears a family resemblance to the more expensive Balistreri Vineyard bottling in its tart, crisp profile, although there’s some dark earth and cola notes layered over the pie cherry fruit.

Focused and concentrated, with raspberry, white pepper and smoke aromas and layered wild berry, plum and mineral flavors that finish with ripe but still firm tannins. Ends with a nice mineral and pebble edge. Drink now through 2012.

Possesses the sort of elegance that is coveted by winemakers around the world. The lengthy stay in French oak barrels (half new) is evidenced in the warm, toasted nut and mocha flavors that never overwhelm the bright red fruit. Ripe red raspberry and maraschino cherry dominate on the palate, but they are laced with cinnamon, nutmeg and chocolate notes, creating a well-rounded and complex flavor on the tongue. The flavors are concentrated, but not heavy, and the alcohol does not overpower the fruit. Even at $60 I still feel as though this wine is a steal!