2015 Big Basin Vineyards Lester Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 200 cases, $55. Released November 2017. 17-year-old vines in Corralitos planted at 485-570 feet elevation in sandy clay loam over sedimentary bed rock. Mt Eden, 115 and 667 clones. 70% whole cluster native yeast fermentation. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels.. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Very reserved and savory nose, offering aromas of earthy flora, vegetal juice and seasoned oak. Mid weight flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and burnt tobacco emerge royally over time in the glass. Silky in the mouth with gentle tannins and a quenching finish. The wine seems a bit closed even when re-tasted two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Time will tell, but for now, Score: 91. Reviewed January 20, 2018

Winery: Big Basin Vineyards
From article: Recently Tasted Pinot Noir & Other Wines