2011 Gloria Ferrer Carneros Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.76, TA 0.55, $27. Estate grown and bottled. A blend of about 7 clones, planted on both hillsides and flats in 11 soil types. Smallest yields in the history of the winery’s vineyards. Harvest was delayed by as much as two weeks. Aged 9 months in 96% French oak, 4% Hungarian oak, with 27% new oak. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Initially, the nose is quite fruity with aromas of dark cherry, blueberry and pomegranate. Over time oak takes over. Mid weight, satisfying flavors of black cherry and dark red berry with oak driven notes of tobacco and toast in the background. Polished, juicy and well structured, with a generous charge of darker fruits on the pleasing finish. Score: 89. Reviewed May 15, 2014

Winery: Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir