2011 Tin Barn Ricci Vineyard Carneros Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., pH 3.85, TA 0.38, 161 cases, $34. Released September 2013. This family owned vineyard is located on a south facing slope facing San Pablo Bay in a cook foggy area. 66% 777, 34% Pommard. Aged 14 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Persistent aromas of black cherry, spice, dark chocolate and sweet smoke fill the glass. Very tasty core of black cherry and black raspberry fruits with accents of cola and brown spice including cinnamon. Oak highlights add a welcoming tone. Very uplifting and juicy despite the lower acidity. I liked this wine the more I tasted it. The wine definitely has a Carneros imprint with its darker fruit and earthy, mushroom tone. Score: 92. Reviewed December 18, 2013

Winery: Tin Barn Vineyards
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir