2012 Hartford Court Velvet Sisters Estate Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.72, TA 0.56, 397 cases, $65. Released January 2015. The “Velvet Sisters” are local historical figures who in Boontling lore became known for wearing plush velvet dresses. The grapes are sourced from blocks within Falk Vineyard planted to Dijon 115, 667 and 777, and Pommard selections. Native and cultured yeasts. Aged 17 months in 100% French oak barrels, 32% new. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Very enticing aromas of alpine strawberry, cherry, wood spice and sous-bois. Highly satisfying, “pretty” core of cherry fruit with a flowery underpinning. The oak is well-integrated, the fine-grain tannins provide support, and the wine finishes with a burst of juicy, black cherry fruit which hangs on for dear life. Score: 92-93. Reviewed May 4, 2015

Winery: Hartford Family Winery
From article: On the Pinot Trail: Hartford Family Winery