2012 Sinor-LaVallee San Luis Obispo County Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 438 cases, $30, screwcap. 73% Squire Canyon Vineyard in Avila Beach and 27% Spanish Springs Vineyard in Pismo Beach. Native and inoculated yeast fermentation. 12 days in fermenter. Pressed off in an imported Italian basket press. Aged 11 months in 50% new French oak from Francois Frères. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of blueberries and pomegranate lead to full-bodied flavors of blue and purple berries with a hint of spice and vanillin oak. A big boy, but refined with integrated tannins. A touch of heat shows up on the finish. Score: 88. Reviewed July 19, 2014

Winery: Sinor-LaVallee
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay & Outliers