2013 Big Basin Vineyards Alfaro Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

12.4% alc., 175 cases, $55. Released November 2015. 14-year-old vines planted at 588-730 feet elevation in sandy gravel loam soil. Harvest Brix 22º. 40% whole cluster (one lot de-stemmed and one lot had 66% whole clusters), whole berry and native yeast fermentation. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose elevates over time in the glass, offering a lovely perfume of cherry, cranberry, dried rose petal and dried herbs. A mix of red fruits fills the mouth on entry, showing good richness on the mid palate, and finishing with a sprightly mix of red berries, whole cluster spice and a hint of oak. The texture is very comforting, and a welcome savory thread plays in the background. Well-crafted, with matched tannins. Score: 91-92. Reviewed February 26, 2016

Winery: Big Basin Vineyards
From article: Big Basin Vineyards: Whole Cluster Goodness Pinot Noir