2005 Wente Vineyards Estate Grown Reliz Creek Arroyo Seco Monterey County Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $18. This wine is named after the creek that runs through the estate vineyards in the Arroyo Seco region of Monterey. There are several blocks dating back to 1963, which are planted to the old Pommard and Martini clones. Neighboring these are more recent, high-density plantings that include a variety of new Dijon clones. Fermentation is done in small, upright, stainless steel fermenters. Pump overs were done twice daily. The wine was aged for 14 months in a combination of American, French, Eastern European and neutral oak barrels. · Aromas of wine cellar, cherries, strawberries and grass. Flavors of black cherries, char and Asian five-spice. Welcoming elegance and refreshing acidity. (Markets) Reviewed June 16, 2009

Winery: Wente Vineyards
From article: Lazy Pinots for Summer