2009 Paul Lato “Duende” Gold Coast Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 100 cases, $60. Paul says it is crucial to know when to pick this vineyard and fortunately he has nine vintages of experience in managing his vineyard block. The grapes are from 21 year-old own-rooted Martini clone. Yields are 2 tons per acre. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. · My notes say, “Amazing” twice, both in the aromatic and flavor descriptives. Alluring scent of fresh plums flush with spice. Red and black stone fruits with impressive presence and length on the finish. Just the right amount of oak spice influence to augment the fruit spice. No one does old vine Martini like Paul. Reviewed March 13, 2011

Winery: Paul Lato
From article: Paul Lato: Master of Harmony & Elegance