2014 Sarah’s Vineyard Reserve Santa Clara Valley Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., 142 cases, $60. Estate grown. Hand-waxed bottles. Clones 667, 777, 115 and “DRC.” Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Winemaker Tim Slater. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of very ripe cherry and berry and toasty barrel. Mid to full-bodied flavors of purple berries and black cherry entering modestly but then exploding on the mid palate with rich fruit flavor. Structured to match the sappy fruit core and enough acidity for streamlined drinking. Silky in the mouth, with accents of cola and dark chocolate, finishing with joyous fruit. Very ripe fruited in style, but highly enjoyable. Score: 92. Reviewed May 7, 2017

Winery: Sarah’s Vineyard
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Wines