2013 Longoria Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.61, 100 cases, $50. After 20 years of producing Pinot Noir from this vineyard, Rick stopped working with the grapes after the 2006 vintage. In 2013, during a luncheon honoring cofounder Michael Benedict at Sanford & Benedict Vineyard’s iconic bar Rick was inspired to return to the vineyard as a source of Pinot Noir. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Intriguing aromas of blackberry pie and incense. Mid weight plus flavors of earthy blackberry jam and Hoison sauce accented with toasty oak. The tannic load is noticeable in this wine resulting in an astringent finish at present. Short term cellaring should alleviate some of the aggressive tannins. Score: 89. Reviewed June 14, 2015

Winery: Longoria Wines
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir