2017 Big Basin Dune and Mountain Monterey County Pinot Noir

12.8% alc., 440 cases, $36. Release January 2019. Grapes were sourced from Olson Vineyard located just off Monterey Bay planted in ancient sand dunes, and Coastview Vineyard situated at 2200 feet elevation in the Gabilan Mountains overlooking Monterey Bay and planted in decomposed granite. Vine age is 18 years. Clones are Dijon 114, 115, 667, 777, and Pisoni and Swan selections. 95% whole cluster, native yeast, aged 11 months in French oak barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Conspicuous aromas of Maraschino cherry, burnt tobacco, and BBQ spice rub. Very sleek in the mouth in a mid weight style, with flavors of black cherry and tobacco and an earthy vibe. A bit of astringent tannin is apparent upon opening, but nearly resolves when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. The fruit is quite ebullient and propels a lengthy finish. This wine will be better upon release in January as the tannins enmesh. Score: 92. Reviewed October 12, 2018

Winery: Big Basin Vineyards
From article: Oregon’s Big Table Farm and California’s Big Basin Committed to Whole Cluster