2009 Anthill Farms Comptche Ridge Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., $44. This 3-acre vineyard is situated north of Navarro above the town of Comptche and just inland from the northern Mendocino Coast. It is dry-farmed by the Weir family. Planted exclusively to Swan clone, yields are 1 ton per acre. · Medium dark purple-red color in the glass. This wine is very upfront after opening. Deep, dark and mysterious nose offering aromas of blackberries, black plums, underbrush and subtle oak. Impressive fruit intensity on the attack and on the finish which persists for what seems like a minute. Rugged and masculine in character with ripe, firm tannins yet possessed with a modicum of finesse. Displays an earth and mineral laden undertone that speaks to the terroir of this region. Spectacular the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Reviewed November 29, 2011

Winery: Anthill Farms
From article: 2009 California Praiseworthy Pinots