2006 Athair Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., 650 cases, $36. Athair means “father” in Irish Gaelic. Winemaker Jim McMahon crafts this wine dedicated to the fathers in his life. Sourced from three vineyards. 3-day cold soak, 8-day fermentation, aged in 25% new French oak barrels for 9 months, held in bottle for an additional 5 months before release. · Captivating aromas of cherries, sassafras, sandalwood, sage and oak. Ripe cherry and raspberry core with underlying hints of herbs and forest floor. The mouth-coating ripe tannins need some time to resolve. A very flavorful wine that is immensely satisfying. Decant now if you pop the cork and match with short ribs. Reviewed July 9, 2009

Winery: Athair Wines
From article: Sips of 2006 California Pinot Noirs