2012 Lucienne Hook Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.85, TA 0.60, $50. The first Hook Vineyard designate.The farthest south of Hahn’s four SLH vineyards. Clone 115. Aged 14 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Hi-tone aromas of black cherry, strawberry, cardamom spice, and subtle smoky oak. Mid weight flavors of red and black cherry, raspberry, plum and red licorice really explode over time in the glass. A riff of smoky oak adds support, the tannins are nicely balanced, and the mouthfeel is silky. Plenty of sweet fruit surfaces on the generous finish. Still flavorful and soft on the palate the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91. Reviewed August 25, 2014

Winery: Lucienne
From article: Lucienne: Very Special Pinot Noir from the Santa Lucia Highlands