2007 Martin Alfaro Schultze Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 235 cases, $36. The Schultze Family Vineyard is planted to 15 acres of Dijon clones 115, 667, 777 and 2A and Pommard 4. Grapes were 100% de-stemmed and lightly crushed into small open-top fermenters. A cold soak of 5 days ensued. Fermentation was traditional and the wine was aged 10 months on the lees in 40% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered. · Dark and ripe fruits with underlying herbs and earthiness. A bit rough now in its youth but shows the stuffing and balance to blossom nicely in a year. Reviewed March 15, 2009

Winery: Martin Alfaro
From article: Tasting Santa Cruz Pinot Noirz