2008 Conspire Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., $40. Crafted by Napa Valley winemaker Amy Aiken. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of dark red cherries, strawberries, subtle spice, “automobile garage,” and smoky oak. Medium-weighted flavors of cherries, black raspberries and strawberries with an underlying smoky, tarry note. Fresh and clean with soft tannins and lively acidity. I am not a fan of smoky Pinot, but there are consumers who seem to enjoy it and they may welcome this wine. For me, the smoky, burnt flavors simply tarnish the pretty fruit in this wine, although they tend to diminish over time in the glass. Tasted twice a few months apart. Unsatisfactory. Reviewed November 2, 2011

Winery: Conspire
From article: Some Current Russian River Valley Appellation Offerings