2009 WesMar Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 280 cases, $35. From Salzgeber and Balletto vineyards. Denise says this will age as well as the vineyard-designated wines. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Lovely aromatics featuring well-spiced Bing cherries, nutmeg and cardamom. Medium-weight cherry core with added notes of dark raspberries and cranberries and the faintest oak in the background. Refreshingly crisp and silky smooth with a floral aromatic tone on the lively finish. My only nit is that the wine is lacking a bit in fruit intensity needed to balance the zesty acidity. Good. Reviewed January 11, 2012

Winery: WesMar Winery
From article: Embarrassment of Riches: California