2011 Donum Estate Grown Reserve Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., pH 3.65, TA 0.59, 343 cases, $90. A selection of 14 barrels of Dijon 667 clone. Long cold soak, aged 18 months in 71% new French oak. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Deep aromas of black cherry, sassafras and cedary oak. Very polished and lush on the palate, with a sappy core of Bing cherry fruit accented with sassafras, cola and brown spices. A nice touch of oak adds interest and the refined tannins bring softness. The most striking feature of this wine is the finish which is flamboyant and very persistent. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the finish remained striking. Score: 93. Reviewed May 15, 2014

Winery: Donum Estate
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir