2012 Talisman Wildcat Mountain Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., pH 3.74, TA 0.60, 173 cases, $52. Released June 1, 2015. This vineyard is the highest in the area, situated at 750 feet elevation on the southern flank of the mountain range straddling both Los Carneros and Sonoma Coast appellations. It is exposed to cold and foggy air that arrives through the Petaluma Gap and from San Pablo Bay. Planted in 1998 by Nancy and Tony Lilly and their partner, Steve MacRostie in decomposed volcanic basalt to clones 115, 777 and Pommard. 25% whole cluster. Yield 2.6 tons per acre. Native yeast fermentation, extended postfermentation maceration. Aged 21 months in 100% French oak barrels, 57% new. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely perfume of wild berries and macerated cherries with just a hint of oak. Silky smooth on the palate with a mid weight array of dark raspberry, pomegranate and cherry flavors framed by refined tannins. There is modest oak seasoning and a healthy tannic backbone that predicts age ability. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the nose was still bright and pleasing and that silky smooth texture still captivated. My only nit is that a hint of alcoholic warmth creeps in slightly on the finish. Score: 91-92. Reviewed August 18, 2015

Winery: Talisman
From article: 2012 Talisman 20th Vintage Pinot Noir