2013 Bernardus Garys’ Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 165 cases, $65. Bottled August 2014. “Pisoni clone,” 100% de-stemmed, aged 10 months in 100% French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose offers oak-embellished aromas of fresh black raspberry and blackberry. The flavors echo the nose in a rich, plush style that is fruit-driven. Muscular tannins and oak make their presence felt. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the fruit aromas were more evident, the oak had assimilated, but the tannins still stuck out. On both days, the wine had a hint of alcoholic heat on the finish. This wine currently lacks balance and nuance, but a few years in the cellar may help some. Score: 88. Reviewed September 18, 2015

Winery: Bernardus Vineyards & Winery
From article: Small Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir