2011 Patiné Gap’s Crown Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $60. Clones 667 and “828.” · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. The wine continued to evolve in the glass over time to reveal enticing aromas of black cherry, black raspberry and black plum accented with spice. Full-bodied, yet harmonious in the mouth, with a luscious core of very ripe fruit, annotated by oak, finishing with generous aplomb. Tasted six hours later from a previously opened bottle, the wine was still drinking nicely with an appealingly smooth mouth feel. The fruit had become even darker, veering to black currant more than black cherry. This wine does push the ripeness envelope presumably because of a heat spike before harvest. A bit of alcoholic heat peaks out over time. That said, it is an enjoyable wine in the generous Caliesque style. Score: 89. Reviewed February 22, 2014

Winery: Patiné Cellars
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Wines