2012 Conarium Madeline’s Cuvée Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.60, 100 cases, $35. Harvest Brix 25º. A barrel selection of various vineyard origins. 25% whole cluster fermentation, crushed by foot before a 7-day cold soak. Aged sur lie for 16 months in French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Lively aromas of black cherry, sous-bois and toasty oak. Discreetly weighted and quite flavorful, with tastes of black cherry, ollaliberry, and oak that attack with purpose, but fade a bit on the finish. The tannins are nicely balanced and the mouth feel is very silky. Score: 89. Reviewed January 23, 2015

Winery: Conarium Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir