2012 Talisman Spring Hill Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.78, TA 0.59, 262 cases, $44. Released June 1, 2015. This vineyard was planted in 2001, 2002 and 2003 at 600 foot elevation in far western Petaluma. Clones are 777, Pommard, and Calera. Yield 2.5 tons per acre. 30% whole cluster, native fermentation, extended maceration. Aged 21 months in 100% French oak barrels, 50% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Shy, but pleasant aromas of black cherry pie glaze and complimentary toasty oak. The dark cherry core is fresh and rewarding and accented with notes of mocha and savory herbs. The tannins are modest, the wine is accordingly quite approachable now but was much better the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle when the nose became much more expressive, the texture was notably soft and mellow, the tannins suave, and the bright cherry fruit nicely complimented by nutty oak. A bit of alcoholic warmth shows up on the finish. Score: 90-91. Reviewed August 18, 2015

Winery: Talisman
From article: 2012 Talisman 20th Vintage Pinot Noir