2017 Taft Street Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 990 cases, $28. Sourced from Skikos Vineyard (clone 667) and Winkler Vineyard (clone 23), both in the Russian River Valley. A 5-day cold soak was followed by inoculation with proprietary yeast and then open-top tank fermented at cool temperatures. The wine was aged in French oak barrels, 30% new, for 10 months. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Enticing aromas of Bing cherry, dark raspberry, baking spice, cola and graham. A quintessential Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, featuring flavors of dark red and black cherry, cola, spice, dark cocoa and a hint of toasty oak. Nicely composed and welcoming, with some finishing generosity. A fantastic value. Tasted twice with the same results. Score: 92. Reviewed March 23, 2019

Winery: Taft Street Winery
From article: California Pinot Noir to Swoon Over