2012 Patz & Hall Hyde Vineyard Carneros Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 1,100 cases, $70. Patz & Hall has made wine from this vineyard since 1996. Several sections of the vineyard were planted exclusively for Patz & Hall. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. This is a top performer, with glorious aromas of black cherry, raspberry, cowhide and floral shop. A burly wine with a hedonistic load of earthy black cherry, boysenberry and cassis flavors that really sparkle. The velvety texture is seductive, oak seasoning is spot on, and the sweet cherry finish leaves a big impression. There are substantial ripe tannins that should mellow with some cellaring. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the fruit intensity bowled me over! Score: 93. Reviewed April 20, 2015

Winery: Patz & Hall
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir, Rosé & Chardonnay