2007 Melville Estate Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

15.3% alc., $32. 14 Pinot Noir clones. Yields were 1.7 tons per acre. 67% of fruit was de-stemmed and 33% fermented as whole clusters. Total skin and stem contact averaged 30 days. Aged in 16% new French oak. · This wine needs some time to open up in the glass. On the nose there are primarily dark red fruits with hints of oak spice and minerals. Tasty red berry fruit accented by tea and pepper drops off on the finish. Medium weighted with mild dry tannins and a good spark of acidity. Holds its alcohol well. The flavors trump the aromas at this stage. Reviewed May 7, 2009

Winery: Melville Vineyards & Winery
From article: Small Sips of More California Pinot