2013 Stemmler Ferguson Cuttings Carneros Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.74, TA 0.68, 48 cases, $44. Martini clones planted in 1974 by Thomas Ferguson were pulled out in 2010, but a block on the Donum Estate Vineyard was planted with budwood from the Ferguson Vineyard. Bottled August 2014. 100% de-stemmed, 8-day cold soak, post fermentation maceration. After resting on lees for 10 months, two favorite barrels were selected from the lot and blended and bottled. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. With swirling, the aromas really pop, including notes of cherry reduction sauce, baking spice and sweet oak. Impressive on the attack, with an eye opening burst of black cherry, boysenberry and spice flavors. Very charming in the mouth, with a soft, seductive texture and a glorious finish replete with black cherry goodness. This wine clearly stands out among the 2013 Stemmler Pinot Noir lineup. Score: 93. Reviewed September 18, 2015

Winery: Stemmler
From article: Small Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir