2013 Press Cellars Helluva Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., $40. New release. From a 5.5-acre vineyard managed by Sal Galvan who is also the winemaker along with proprietor Patrick Campbell. Inaugural Pinot Noir release from this winery. 100% destemmed. Aged 10 months in 60% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, bacon fat and nutty oak. Mid weight plus flavors of black cherry, black raspberries, brown spice and a touch of smoke, anise-laced oak. Nicely balanced with modest tannin and acidity. The mid palate attack is robust and the finish is filled with darker fruit goodness. Better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle with better oak integration and more soaring aromatics. A solid wine that will find appeal. Score: 90. Reviewed November 19, 2014

Winery: Press Cellars
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir