2012 Cellars 33 Brousseau Vineyard Chalone AVA Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., pH 3.70, TA 0.50, 120 cases, $42. Released August 26, 2014. Harvest Brix 23.8º. Soils of limestone and decomposed granite. Vineyard is certified organic. Mt. Eden clone planted in 1981 and more recently planted Pommard clone. 15% whole cluster, native yeast fermentation. Aged 16 months in 100% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. This wine was tasted twice.The nose exhibited a range of aromas initially including earth, leaf, conifer, oak, and a pungent note of volatile acidity in one bottle. Sampled several hours later, the nose was considerably more pleasing with resolution of the volatile acidity, and aromas of cherry, spicy black raspberry, herbs and earthy flora. The sweet core of earthy blackberry, black plum and cassis flavors displayed good richness. The tannins were modest in one bottle, but aggressive and astringent in a second bottle. Score: 87. Reviewed March 16, 2015

Winery: Cellars 33
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir