2012 Byron Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.46, TA 0.56, 9,919 cases, $29. Fruit primarily from the estate Nielson Vineyard (both old and newer vines) with a smaller amount from the Sta. Rita Hills. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose attracts with aromas of spiced strawberry and raspberry, violets and vanillin oak. There is plenty of luscious spiced berry and plum fruit but it is somewhat overwhelmed by oakdriven notes of vanilla and dark chocolate. Easy to drink with submerged tannins, finishing a bit shallow and short. Score: 86. Reviewed July 19, 2014

Winery: Byron Vineyard & Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay & Outliers