2010 Pali Wine Co. Fiddlestix Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

15.8% alc., 100 cases, $54, screw cap. Clones 667, 777, 115 and Pommard 4. Aged 15 months in 50% new French oak. · Moderately dark purple color in the glass. Earthy nose perfumed with scents of compost, dark stone and berry fruits and dark chocolate. Mid-weight flavors of black plums, blackberries and currants with a hint of oak-driven graham and dark chocolate notes. The pedigree of the fruit really shows through. Firmly structured, but pleasing to drink, leaving a bit of heat in its wake on the finish, especially as it warms in the glass. Still appealing the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Made well in its style, and has the tannins and fruit to stand up to the high alcohol, but still a little too boozy for me. Good (+). Reviewed July 23, 2012

Winery: Pali Wine Co.
From article: Tasting Pinot with Plenty of Noir