2011 J. Wilkes Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 550 cases, $26. Fermented with native yeast and barrel aged in French oak for 14 months. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. A smoky, earthy Pinot Noir featuring medium bodied black cherry fruit and hints of anise, tar and oak. Juicy, with mild tannins and an enjoyable finish offering good cherry fruit intensity and refreshing acidity. Score: 87. Reviewed September 5, 2013

Winery: J. Wilkes Wines
From article: Small Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir and a Few Whites