2016 Three Sticks “The James Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.40, TA 0.62, 265 cases, $65. Released February 6, 2018. Sourced from Rita’s Crown, La Rinconada and Sanford & Benedict vineyards located in the southern part of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Open-top fermentation, 22% whole cluster, aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 55% new. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Demure aromas of black raspberry, blackberry and toast. Mid weight plus in style, with a core of blackberry and black currant flavors framed by very fine-grained tannins. Toasty oak plies the background as the fruit reaches for expression. The velvety texture is the best feature of this wine. I would hold off a year or so to promote integration of the oak and elevation of the fruit. Score: 90. Reviewed April 15, 2018

Winery: Three Sticks Wines
From article: Recent Sips of California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay