2007 Alysian Hallberg Vineyard Crossroads Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.41, 230 cases, $55. Hallberg Vineyard is located in the Green Valley AVA. This vineyard was developed in 2000 by Kirk Lokka, a skilled viticulturist. Dijon clones 777 and 828. 100% destemmed. Aged 14 months in 45% new French oak barrels. · Shy dark stone fruit aromas emerge slowly in the glass offset by scents of oak and toasted brioche. With patient swirling, a tasty array of earth-infused blackberry and plum fruit emerges backed by a hint of lemon zest most evident on the crisp finish. A big-boned wine balanced nicely by lively acidity and very silky in the mouth. Tasted much better 8 hours later from a previously opened and recorked bottle. Reviewed June 8, 2010

Winery: Alysian Wines
From article: Small Sips of Pinot