2017 Clarice Garys’ Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $80, screw cap. This project from winemaker Adam Lee is named after his teetotaling grandmother Clarice. 54% whole cluster fermented. Aged in 66.6% new French oak barrels. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Enticing aromas of dark cherry and spice box. A tad richer and more structured than the Rosella’s bottling. Exquisitely composed with a wide range of dark fruit flavors and a touch of spice. There is a good acidic vibe and the finish is amazingly long. When tasted from a previously opened bottle after 4 days, the wine was still superb but will be even more rewarding in a few years. Reviewed June 18, 2019. Score: 96. Reviewed September 19, 2021

Winery: Clarice
From article: Elite California Pinot Noir Vineyards Part III: Central Coast - Santa Lucia Highlands