2008 El Molino Rutherford Napa Valley Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., 696 cases, $60. One of the first wineries in Napa Valley, founded in 1871. The label is an original design introduced in 1871 displaying the Bale Mill, or “El Molino.” The grapes are grown at the estate Star Vineyard where the first Pinot Noir block was planted in 1991. The proprietors are Lily and Jon Berlin who are winemaking partners as well. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. A mix of dark red and black berry aromas on the nose is complimented by spice and oak. The core of black raspberry and plum fruit really sings on the palate. The wine is well-endowed with ripe tannins, a silky mouth feel, and impressive fruit presence on the long finish. The fruit pushes the ripe/roasted envelope but never crosses the line. This is a terroir-driven feature, as the vineyard site is considered warm by Pinot Noir standards. Very good. Source: www.elmolinowinery.com and some retail distribution. Star Vineyard below. Reviewed February 22, 2012

Winery: El Molino
From article: Sips of California Pinot Noir