2008 MacMurray Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., $17.69. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Initially the nose offered some pleasingly spiced black cherry and strawberry aromas, but over time in the glass, the fruit faded, unveiling primarily oak and smoke scents. Moderately rich core of fruit with a heavy smoke affected flavor of tar and ash, which, along with the firm tannins, overwhelmed the fruit flavors. Unsatisfactory. Reviewed February 8, 2011

Winery: MacMurray Ranch
From article: Playing the Pinot Lottery at Trader Joe’s