2010 Sonoma-Loeb Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., pH 3.83, TA 0.50,, $45. Clones 667 and 777 from one of the Dutton family’s most prized blocks. Long cold soak, indigenous yeasts, unfined and unfiltered. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels. · Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Richly perfumed with brandied black cherries, spice, and oak-driven aromas of herbs and vanilla. Full-bodied, husky style, with a big heart of black cherry and blackberry fruit and a staccato of cola, and chocolate. Well oaked, with nicely managed tannins. This wine makes a statement. A little too close to Syrah for my comfort, but very well made in its style. Very good. Reviewed June 24, 2012

Winery: Sonoma-Loeb
From article: Along the Pinot Trail in California: Part 2 - North Coast & Other