2012 Mercy Zabala Vineyard Arroyo Seco Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.82, TA 0.63, 219 cases, $38. Windblown site with rocky soils. Vineyard planted in 1972. Clones 115, 667 and a little Pommard. 100% destemmed, 2-day cold soak, inoculated with RC212 yeast, 12 day fermentation, aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 22% new. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Demure aromas of cherry, blackberry, earth and char. Structured and earthy, with a juicy core of black cherry fruit accented with hints of black tea, anise and toast, that holds on through a moderately lengthy finish. Score: 87. Reviewed June 18, 2016

Winery: Mercy Vineyards
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir