2011 Benovia Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.63, 1,600 cases, $38. Released March 2013. 60% estate Martaella Vineyard with the remainder from Martinelli, Lingenfelder, Dutton and Petersen vineyards. A blend of Calera, Swan and Mt. Eden selections, Pommard, and Dijon “828” and 943. 10% whole cluster. Indigenous yeast fermentation. Aged 16 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with fresh cherries and roseate notes. Flavors of Bing cherries, cola and exotic spice. Drinks bigger than the color would indicate. A solid, go-to, daily drinker. Good. Reviewed June 23, 2013

Winery: Benovia Winery
From article: Recent Stops on the Pinot Trail