2014 Waxwing Lester Family Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., 138 cases, $45. Released October 2015. Vines planted in 1998 on a sandy loam hillside bordered by redwoods. Nearly dry farmed. Two-thirds clone 115 and one-third 667. Harvest Brix 24º. Crushed by foot whole cluster and fermented in open-top fermenters with indigenous yeast. Aged 11 months in once-used French oak barrels and bottled with a light filtration. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Lovely aromas of red cherry, baking spice, rose petal and sandalwood lead to an elegantly composed and delicious wine offering vivid red cherry and raspberry flavors and an appealing whole cluster spiciness. The dreamy texture adds to the pleasure as does the lip-smacking, cherry fueled finish. A seamless wine that offers loads of Pinot character. Still terrific the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed November 5, 2015

Winery: Waxwing Wine Cellars
From article: Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir: The Bar Keeps Moving Higher