2015 Mojave Monument Tree Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 48 cases, $60. Released March 2017. Clones 115 and 667 planted in 1999 in loamy clay and decomposed sandstone soils. 100% de-stemmed, 3-day cold soak, fermented in open-top bin with a mixture of pump overs and punch downs for 2 weeks. Aged 15 months in French oak Barrels, one once-used Chardonnay barrel and one neutral Pinot Noir barrel. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose is primary even when checked two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. There are demure, pleasant aromas of well-ripened dark fruits. Mid weight plus on the palate with a core of black raspberry and blackberry fruits framed by balanced tannins. Satiny and sleek in texture, with charming fruit, good vibrancy and deft oak integration. The wine is searching for expression at this stage, and presumably will benefit from more time in bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed July 9, 2017

Winery: Mojave
From article: More Recently Tasted Anderson Valley, Mendocino Ridge and Mendocino County Pinot Noir