2011 Kutch McDougall Ranch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., 345 cases, $55. This vineyard is located 3.5 miles inland from the coast at 935 to 1,030 feet elevation. Clones are 114 and 115. Vine age is 15 years. Farmed by noted vineyardist Ulises Valdez. Hirsch Vineyard is on the next southern ridge. 50% whole cluster. Aged sur lie for 10 months in 50% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Vibrant aromas of black cherries and whole cluster floral spice. Delicious core of well-ripened black cherries with complimentary spice and a very subtle green thread in the background, finishing with depth of fruit, juicy acidity and a rush of dry tannins. When tasted the following day from a previous opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had dramatically transformed. The wine had really come together, the green thread had disappeared, and the tannins had softened considerably. This will be a very enticing wine for whole cluster fans. I recommend aging this wine at least 2 to 3 years. Score: 93. Reviewed December 18, 2013

Winery: Kutch Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir