2015 Three Sticks Walala Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.59, 218 cases, $70. Inaugural release. This 17-acre vineyard is perched on a ridge at 1,200 feet elevation just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean near the town of Gualala and in the middle of 19,000 acres of pristine forestland. This heavily maritime-influenced vineyard is on the extreme edge of Pinot Noir viticulture. Soil is Goldridge sandy loam along with gravelly Hugo loam. 25% whole cluster, open-top fermentation, aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 55% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Sensational aromas of blackberry, cassis and warm Holiday spices that are deep and persistent. Mid weight plus flavors of slightly sweet purple and black berries are bold and generous accented with the right amount of spice. Bombastically flavored with majestic fruit, yet elegantly composed with impressive balance and a silky mouth feel. This on-the-edge vineyard continues to astonish with its fruit concentration. Score: 95. Reviewed January 6, 2018

Winery: Three Sticks Wines
From article: A Bounty of Ravishing California Pinot Noir Greets the New Year