2011 Gary Farrell Stiling Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.37, TA 0.62, 266 cases, $50. Release date February 2014. Owners Don and Barbara Stiling converted a 48-acre apple orchard to vineyards back in 1988. Goldridge soils, coastal fog intrusions. Field selection of Swan clone. Small crop and delayed harvest. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, aged 13 months in 40% new French oak barrels. Racked and returned just once out of barrel before final blending and bottling. · Moderately light ruby red color in the glass. Lovely aromas of Bing cherries, red roses and oak spice. An elegant wine that speaks of the cool vintage with flavors of cherries, blueberries and plum with a hint of oak in the background. Silky and juicy with lively acidity, picking up some intensity over time in the glass. Not a powerful wine by any stretch, but some finishing vigor, very welcoming and easy to like. Score: 89. Reviewed December 18, 2013

Winery: Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir