2012 Benovia Tilton Hill Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 325 cases, $56. Vineyard is located at the Russian River Valley-Sonoma Coast border. Shallow and well-drained Goldridge soils. High-density planting. Clones are “828,” Calera, 777 and 943. Aged in 30%-40% new French oak barrels. · Dark violet color in the glass. Lovely aromas of blackberry, black currant, loamy earth and complimentary oak. Full-flavored with a sappy core of black fruits offering a boatload of pleasure. The concentrated fruit veers to the very ripe side and a little raisin peeks out the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. An underlying forest floor and conifer note adds interest. There is both more tannin and acidity evident in this wine compared to the other two vineyard-designates. Score: 91. Reviewed December 10, 2014

Winery: Benovia Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir (& Chardonnay)