2012 Waits-Mast Oppenlander Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 95 cases, $44. Released October 2014. Vineyard is outside town of Comptche, about 8 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. Harvest Brix 24.7º. Clones 114, 115 and Pommard. 100% de-stemmed, native yeast fermentation, aged 16 months in once used, twice used and neutral French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas never really come forth, even when checked the following day from a previously opened and recorked bottle. The mid weight black cherry and black raspberry flavors have a ripe but not over ripe profile. Highly enjoyable with a touch of oak seasoning and a subtle earthy, feral note typical of this vineyard. Nicely balanced tannins and some finishing intensity. Great potential here but will require some patience. Score: 90-91. Reviewed March 16, 2015

Winery: Waits-Mast Family Cellars
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir