2015 Sea Smoke Southing Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.63, $64. Southing refers to the south-facing hillside bluffs on the estate vineyard. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 45% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, purple berry, underbrush and tar engage the nose. Comforting and satiny in the mouth, in an elegant but flavorful, even powerful, mid weight style, offering flavors of black cherry and boysenberry accompanied by earthbound notes. The tannins are well-behaved making for easy drinking now. Score: 92. Reviewed March 17, 2018

Winery: Sea Smoke Cellars
From article: California Pinot Noir Worth Toasting