2008 Bruliam Doctor’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., pH 3.64, $52, sold out. Inaugural release from this new producer who donates 100% of profits from sales to a charitable foundation. 100% destemmed. Primarily Dijon clone 115 and Calera selection with smaller amounts of 667, 2A and Swan. Barreled as 70% free run juice and 30% press fraction. Aged 11 months in 50% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddishpurple color in the glass. Brooding aromas of blackberries, ripe strawberries and a hint of oak sap and toast. A fruit-driven wine displaying charming and generous flavors of plums, dark berries and quince. Thick and bold, but not jammy, with supple tannins leaving a bit of heat in its wake on the finish. Very typical of Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir. Good. Reviewed June 8, 2010

Winery: Bruliam Wines
From article: Small Sips of Pinot