2010 J Vineyards Estate Grown Russian River Valley Pinot Meunier

14.2% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.52, 120cases, $45. Sold at the winery and to club members. As a sparkling wine producer, it is not surprising that J has 3 acres of Pinot Meunier planted in Nicole’s Vineyard. Normally blended into the Cuvée 20, in 2010 a special varietal version for produced for limited release. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in Italian “Prospero” stainless steel tanks that allowed the seeds that fall to the bottom of the tank to be swept out. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Perfumed with aromas of dark red cherries and berries, spice, potpourri and oak. Middleweight flavors of dark berry fruits with an earthy bent. Soft in the mouth with a slightly rugged personality and noticeable oak in the background. An appealing wine for its individuality. A good alternative to Pinot Noir from Pinot Noir’s tom boy sister. Score: 89. Reviewed August 14, 2013

Winery: J Vineyards and Winery
From article: J Vineyards & Winery: Varietal Wines with a Spark