2021 Modus Operandi Cellars UV-Laguna Vineyard Russian River Valley/Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 100 cases, $85. Releasing January 2023This vineyard was planted by Ulises Valdez Sr. in 2011. The soil is a unique mix of sand and dense clay known as “Sebastopol Clay.” The Pinot Noir benefits from the moisture trapped in the clay by allowing the grapes to achieve ripeness without excessive water stress during the warm summer months. 50% clone 777 and 50% clone 667. Harvest Brix 26.7º. 100% de-stemmed and fermented in open-top tanks. Aged in French oak barrels, 50% new. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of black raspberry, dark rose petals and wood shop. A middleweight-crafted wine with a core of cherry cola and baking spice flavors. There is a redder tone to the fruit than other wines in the 2021 lineup. The alcohol is well hidden and the tannins are silky. Score: 92. Reviewed December 3, 2022

Winery: Modes Operandi Cellars
From article: Modus Operandi Cellars