2015 Chateau St. Jean Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., $70. Sourced from Hallberg Vineyard. Clones 777, 115 and “828.” 3-day cold soak, aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 70% new and aged an additional six months before release. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Muted aromas of black fruits, anise, dark toast and cigar. Ripe, bold and rich, with mid weight plus flavors of black cherry, blackberry, cassis, root beer and spice with an earthy undertone. Oak is well-integrated and the tannic backbone matches up well to the sappy fruit. Nicely balanced and well crafted in this ripe-fruited, hedonistic style, but not my cup of tea. Score: 88. Reviewed March 17, 2018

Winery: Chateau St. Jean Winery & Vineyards
From article: California Pinot Noir Worth Toasting