2007 Truett-Hurst Black Sheep Sonoma County Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., $40. This label is a partnership between Phillip Hurst and Heath Dolan. Paul and Heath Dolan’s forebears purchased what was a sheep farm, Truett Ranch, turning it into one of the first vineyard sources for the historic Italian Swiss Colony brand. Grapes for this wine are sourced from Sonoma Mountain and the Russian River Valley. Aged 12 months in French oak. · Very dark reddishpurple color in the glass. Shy dark fruits on the nose with an emphasis on newly sawn sweet oak and cardamon spice. Plum fruits are the centerpiece of this fruit-driven wine which veers close to overripeness. Harmonious with nicely balanced fruit and tannins, but nothing really stands out either. Decent. Reviewed December 16, 2009

Winery: Truett Hurst
From article: Small Sips of Pinot