2011 Varner Spring Ridge Vineyard Three Blocks Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., $40. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. There is some herbal and tobacco laced oak at play in this wine which features aromas of black cherry, spice, forest floor and smoke with mid weight flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, black currant, pepper and spice. A harmonious wine with modest tannins and energetic acidity, finishing with a welcome burst of aromatic cherry goodness. Even better later in the day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed October 27, 2013

Winery: Varner
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Wines