2017 Sojourn Walala Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.57, 575 cases, $69. Release spring 2019. This vineyard is situated at 1,200 feet elevation just inland from the Pacific Ocean near the coastal town of Annapolis. The maritime climate here creates an extreme growing microclimate that requires precise viticulture. Clones 113, 115 and “828.” Native yeast fermentation, 100% malolactic fermentation, and aged in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. The aromas arrive instantly and persist in the glass, including dark red cherry and berry and fertile earth. As typical with this vineyard, the wine sports a bold core of succulent black raspberry and plummy fruit. There is an appealing earthiness as well and the oak is well integrated. The tannins are reserved, making for easy up front drinking. Score: 93. Reviewed February 3, 2019

Winery: Sojourn Cellars
From article: Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir and Chardonnay