2009 Russian Hill Tara Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., 345 cases, $54. This vineyard is adjacent the winery on an easterly facing slope of the hill and was planted in 1998, later field budded to clone 115. Yields 1.9 tons per acre. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Brooding aromas of dried cherries and oak. Middleweight sensual flavors of black cherries and spice backed by supple tannins, and offering a soft, smooth and satisfying drinking experience. Nicely balanced, with well-integrated oak, the flavors trumping the aromas on this occasion. Still shy on the nose the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Good (+). Reviewed June 4, 2013

Winery: Russian Hill Estate
From article: California Pinot Noir Doctors