2012 Briceland Vineyards Reserve Humboldt County Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 25 cases, $45. A blend of grapes from Phelps, Ronda’s and Elk Prarie vineyards, held for more than 30 months in oak and bottled in the fall of 2015. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Considerable nuances in this wine offering aromas of dark stone and berry fruits, woodfern, underbrush and bittersweet chocolate. The full-bodied flavors of blackest cherry and blackberry are augmented by an appealing peppery spice. Substantial tannins attack the finish with a vengeance, but are well matched to the fruit load. Decant if you drink now, but a few years in the cellar would be preferable. Score: 92. Reviewed January 17, 2016

Winery: Briceland Vineyards
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir