2012 Carol Shelton Larson Vineyard Sonoma-Carneros Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.77, TA 0.75, 382 cases, $38. Released May 1, 2014. Larson Vineyard is owned by Carol’s friend and fellow home brewer, Ken Larson. Harvest Brix 25.8º. 60% 115 and 40% 667. 3% Petite Sirah. Fermented in T-bins with 4 different yeasts. Aged 10 months in 10% new and 90% 1-year-old French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish purple hue in the glass. The nose draws you in with appealing aromas of black cherry tart, blueberry, graham and toast. Mid to full-bodied spiced black cherry core that attacks the mid palate with intensity, persisting on the robust finish. An oak sheen is evident in the background initially but tends to diminish with swirling. The wine picks up interest and nuance over time in the glass; always a good sign. Thoroughly enjoyable now with the balance to hold or improve over the next 5 to 7 years. Score: 91. Reviewed May 15, 2014

Winery: Carol Shelton Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir