2006 Wedell Cellars Ste. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 181 cases, $70. This wine is a blend of Dijon clones 113, 115, 667 and 777 with the majority of the fruit coming from Fiddlestix Vineyard. The harvest in 2006 was extended and delayed, allowing good development of flavors. The grapes were de-stemmed after sorting, with all of the free run juice resulting from the de-stemming discarded. Open top small bin fermenters were employed and indigenous yeasts used. The wine was aged 16 months in 70% new French oak. · Dark reddish-purple robe. Powerful scents of black cherry, sage, and toasty oak. A whiff of alcohol peaks out. There are juicy and succulent dark stone fruits that cascade over the palate and fill the mouth with richness. A citrus note adds interest. The texture is soft and slippery, and there is good grip on the finish. This wine will appeal to fans of fruit-powered, pedal to the metal, Pinot Noir. Reviewed July 19, 2008

Winery: Wedell Cellars
From article: Maurice Wedell: Wedell Cellars