2014 Ken Brown Rancho La Viña Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.57, 178 cases, $55. This vineyard, planted in 2005, is located at the far western edge of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA subjecting it to extreme marine influence. Clone 115. 100% de-stemmed grapes. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 32% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Fruit aromas of cherry and strawberry show up first on the nose, with aromas of BBQ beef and spice arriving over time. Charming on the palate with seamless composure and energy, offering mid weight dark red fruit and baking spice flavors entwined with a complimentary oak backbone. The finish has plenty of cherry goodness and a lift of acidity commonly associated with wines from this AVA. Score: 92. Reviewed April 14, 2018

Winery: Ken Brown Wines
From article: Recent Sips of California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay