2012 North Wines Edna Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., $74. A new wine from John and Lorraine Alban, Rhone varietal specialists, sourced from Alban Estate fruit. Label says, “Grown, produced and bottled by Perro Docs Cellars in Arroyo Grande.” Highly rated by critics, but this bottle, which was heavy with an impressive label and long cork, was not to my liking. 100% de-stemmed and aged in 60% new French oak barrels. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Very ripe, roasted fruits including prune aroma on the nose. Full-bodied flavors of very ripe dark berries and cassis with balanced tannins and a noticeable overlay of cedary oak. Lacks Pinot charm. Score: 86. Reviewed February 8, 2015

Winery: North Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay