2009 Red Car The Aphorist Bartolomei Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alcohol, pH 3.76, TA 0.58, 360 cases, $60. Released April 2011. Fourth release from this vineyard located northwest of Forestville. Clones 113, 777 and Jackson 16. Very low vigor, less than 2 tons per acre. 6% whole cluster. Native fermentation. Aged 11 months in 27% new French oak barrels. · Dark purple in color in the glass. The aromas really come at you with vivid notes of spiced stone fruits, dark berries and complimentary oak. Delicious, moderately intense dark fruit core, featuring appealing plum and spice flavors with a subtle oak note. Bright and juicy, with the tannin and acid backbone for long term enjoyment. Seamless with notable persistence on the finish. Still solid the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Very good. Reviewed May 15, 2011

Winery: Red Car Wine Co.
From article: California Pinot With Plenty of Noir