2007 Tondré Tondré Grapefield Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 400 cases, $43. Winemaker Anthony Craig (Sonnet, Muns Vineyard, Silver Mountain Vineyards), grower Joe Tondre Alarid. 60% Pommard, 40% 777. 37% Hungarian oak. 100% de-stemmed. · Seductive aromas of dark berry tart, plum sauce with notes of spice and vanilla. Very tasty essence of black raspberries with a complimentary peppery spice and a hint of mocha java. Very charming with impeccable balance and a silky mouth feel that makes an impression. Quintessential Santa Lucia Highlands at a sensible price (Note: retail price is $43 which is not unreasonable considering the quality, but I found it for $23 at Bottle Barn in Santa Rosa: apparently a close out on this vintage as it was released December 2009). Reviewed March 2, 2011

Winery: Tondré Wines
From article: Mining for Very Good Over-$30 Pinot:Upping the Ante