2012 Talisman Adastra Vineyard Los Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 416 cases, $56. Release October 1, 2015. This organically farmed and certified vineyard is a shy-bearing site planted in clay loam soil in 1994. Clones are 113, 115, 777, Swan, Pommard, Wädenswil and two unnamed suitcase selections. Aged 20 months in 100% French oak barrels, 59% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Highly perfumed with aromas of black cherry, spice, cola and dark chocolate. A rich dark cherry core of fruit is clothed in modest tannins and complimented by a gentle oak touch. A wine of impressive integrity and balance that is somewhat Russian River Valley in character in this vintage. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine still had generous power and length. Score: 93. Reviewed November 5, 2015

Winery: Talisman
From article: Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir: The Bar Keeps Moving Higher