2014 Carlson John Sebastiano Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $45. Winemaker is Chuck Carlson, vinified in Los Olivos. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. The nose is largely oak-driven (sandalwood and smoky), with added cherry fruit and baking spice aromas. The palate is oak-charged, but there is charming cherry fruit that is complimented by spice. The acidity and tannins are in harmony and there is some generosity to the finish. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, there was considerable oak-driven notes of toast and cigar and the wine had lost some appeal for me. Score: 86. Reviewed January 16, 2017

Winery: Carlson Wines
From article: Recently Tasted Pinot Noir & Chardonnay