2011 Meiomi Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $19, screwcap. 51% Monterey County, 23% Santa Barbara County and 26% Sonoma County. · Deep purple color in the glass. Aromas of black fruits, fig spread, vanilla and caramel. Moderately intense flavors of boysenberries, spice, candied violet, beet root and vanilla. The berry fruit is sappy and delicious and has the signature Belle Glos imprint, but there is too much vanilla from oak on board and the mild confected quality detracts for me. On the positive side, the tannins are well honed and the wine is velvety soft on the palate. Not a classic Pinot Noir by any means, but one that does deliver plenty of sweet, tasty fruit that some may find attractive especially at the modest price. Good. Reviewed October 2, 2012

Winery: Meiomi
From article: California Pinot Noir from A to T