2013 Pisoni Estate Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $75 (sold out). A blend of barrels and different vineyard blocks from the estate property.Each block vinified separately in small lots using native yeast fermentation, hand punch downs, no fining and no filtering. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of blackberry reduction, cassis and baking spices gain intensity in the glass over time. A bit reticent upon opening, but picks up body and appeal with swirling. The mid weight purple and black fruits really glam onto the palate, finishing with uncommon generosity. The wine offers a little less extraction in this vintage, but more juicy acidity. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had undergone a remarkable transformation, offering a plethora of richly flavored fruit on the nose and palate held in check by a firm, balanced structure, and offering a glorious finish that had become even more generous. I would put this wine in the cellar and check it again in 3 to 5 years, but it will most certainly last well over a decade and a half. Score: 93-94. Reviewed December 12, 2015

Winery: Pisoni Vineyards & Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay