2014 Cutruzzola Giacomino Reserve San Luis Obispo County Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.548, 108 cases, $55. Released September 2017. Heavy bottle. 2-day cold soak, 10-day fermentation on skins with 20% whole cluster using Assmannhausen and RC212 yeasts. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 0% new. Four favorite barrels selected from the 2014 vintage. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Hi-tone aromas of cherry, spice, sandalwood and nutty oak arrive over time in the glass. An explosion of purple and black fruits drenches the mouth on entry, offering layers of sappy fruit and bracing tannins. A bit of salinity shows up over time. Silky in texture, noticeable barrel treatment, and some finishing power. The wine is relatively closed, even when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Needs time. Score: 90-91. Reviewed October 22, 2017

Winery: Cutruzzola Vineyards
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir & Chardonnay