2006 Charlie Clay Duelist Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., pH 3.57, 47 cases, $65. A partnership between restaurateur Charlie Palmer and winemaker Clay Mauritson of Mauritson Winery in Dry Creek Valley. 2006 was the inaugural vintage of Charlie Clay wines with the Duelist being a reserve bottling. 85% Dutton-Campbell Vineyard and 15% Bacigalupi Vineyard Wente clone. Available on the wine list at Charlie Palmer’s restaurants. · A riper styled Pinot Noir which approaches but never reaches overripeness. Aromas of macerated strawberries, sandalwood and sweet oak. Juicy essence of berry compote trending to the red and blue berry spectrum with substantial oak in the background. A well-crafted wine that aims to please with vigorous fruit, soft tannins, bright acidity and some persistence on the finish. Good. Reviewed March 11, 2010

Winery: Charlie Clay
From article: Small Sips of Pinot