Pinot Noir

Mar 242014
 
C donatiello wineC. Donatiello Pinot Noir 2012, Bucher Vineyard, Russian River Valley, CA, $55 – Rating 93

Another excellent Pinot Noir from this outstanding Russian River Valley vineyard. Aromas abound of cherry, blueberry, red fruit and earthy spices. A soft and round mouth-feel but in a leaner style with balanced acidity. Integrated flavors of red cherry and chocolate with notes of strawberry, raspberry and spice. Interesting hints of espresso in the long finish. Great as a food accompaniment or just to enjoy for its own sake. Buy This Wine

Mar 172014
 
Emeritus Pinot Noir 2011, Hallberg Ranch, Russian River Valley, CA, $42 – Rating 94

It seems that each year Emeritus Pinot Noir gets just a little bit better and the 2011 is no exception. This is a very balanced Pinot with enough richness to be interesting yet not overpowering or jammy. The nose is robust offering aromas of strawberry, raspberry, spice and leather. A soft mouth-feel with juicy acidity and balanced tannins. Well integrated flavors of cherry, ripe raspberry, ripe strawberry and a bit of blackberry and spice. A distinct minerality in the long finish. Buy This Wine

Feb 252014
 
J Vineyards Pinot Noir -Misterra 2012, Russian River Valley, CA, $50 (S) – Rating 93

Very exciting in it’s uniqueness. A blend of 90% Pinot Noir, 6% Pinotage and 4% Pinot Meunier that offers up some rustic old world impressions. Very expressive nose with aromas of blue fruit, ripe raspberry and forest floor. Lush on the palate with balanced acidity and flavors of blueberry, ripe strawberry, ripe raspberry and a hint of earthiness. Rustic notes on the finish. Buy This Wine

Feb 122014
 
2010 Mercy Vineyards Cedar Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir, Arroyo Seco, CA $38(S) – Rating 90

An intriguing nose of strawberry pie enhanced with subtle notes of leather. Juicy yet balanced acidity with soft tannins. Strawberry, raspberry and red cherry are the predominate flavors with notes of cinnamon and earthiness as the wine opens up. Hints of milk chocolate in the long finish. Buy This Wine