2012 Ram’s Gate Carneros Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA o.55, 1,954 cases, $40. Aged 11 months in new and used French oak. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Deep and dark fruited with aromas of black cherries, black currants, dark chocolate and baking spices. Full-bodied flavors of black cherry and blackberry with appealing earth, cola and grilled mushroom accents that are typical of Carneros Pinot Noir. Mouth filling on the attack and generous and rich on the finish with well-managed oak. Not a subtle wine by any stretch, but you have to like its gritty presence. Score: 90. Reviewed July 19, 2014

Winery: Ram's Gate Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay & Outliers