2016 En Garde Russian River Valley Reserve Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 121 cases, $80. Clones “828,” 23 and Pommard. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Loamy aromas join an array of dark fruits on the nose. The mid weight flavors of dark red and black cherry satisfy, yet the wine is a bit rustic and brooding initially. The alcohol is well integrated and the finest grain tannins provide textural interest as well as support for longevity. The finish is the longest of the three 2016 En Garde Pinots tasted. More giving with lively aromatics but with noticeable oak input when re-tasted two days after opening. This is a wine to put away in your cellar for a few years while you drink the more charming Pleasant Hill bottling. Score: 93. Reviewed February 23, 2019

Winery: En Garde Winery
From article: Recent Tastings of California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay