2009 Drew Weir Vineyard Yorkville Highlands Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $40. Fifth vintage of this wine. This 15-acre vineyard is situated at the southeastern border of Anderson Valley amongst the redwoods. Planted by owner Bill Weir to a California heirloom clone purported to be from DRC, cuttings from Rochioli River Block, Pommard 4 and Wädenswil 2A. I have had some marvelous wines from this vineyard through the years and this vintage is no exception. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Complex nose that unfolds slowly revealing many nuances including aromas of dark berries and black plums, mushrooms, bramble, spice, and rose petal. Delicious core of fresh plum compote wrapped in firm, but well-honed tannins, attacking the mid palate with conviction, and persisting on the soft finish that shows a riff of citrus and a perfume of plum sauce. Deft balance between richness, acidity and tannin. It is wines like this that make Pinot my paramour. Reviewed November 29, 2011

Winery: Drew Family Cellars
From article: 2009 California Praiseworthy Pinots