2012 Melville Estate Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., $36 (can be found discounted at retail). Released March 2014. 16 Pinot Noir clones. 40% whole cluster. 30 days skin and stem contact (7- day cold soak, 2+ weeks of fermentation and 1+ week of extended maceration). Aged sur lie in neutral French oak. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Appealing aromas of black raspberry, black peppercorn, spicy oak and old cask. Modest in weight with a good attack of darker berry and cherry fruits with accents of black tea, anise and savory herbs. A kiss of oak is complimentary. Nicely balanced with appealing elegance and up front appeal. Score: 90. Reviewed October 6, 2014

Winery: Melville Vineyards & Winery
From article: Recent Sips of Pinot Noir