2011 the HILT The Vanguard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 980 cases, $45. Aged in 45% new and 55% neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Very shy nose which reveals little over extended time in the glass. When checked the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was much more aromatic with scents of cherry, spice, tobacco and savory herbs. The wine’s enjoyable entry features black cherry, raspberry, boysenberry, spice, petrol and oak char flavors, all persisting through a finish that displays good intensity and acidic verve. Again, the flavors are more generous and appealing the following day. Decant or cellar at this time. Score: 90. Reviewed April 20, 2015

Winery: The HIlt Estate
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir, Rosé & Chardonnay