2013 Arista Two Birds Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.87, TA 0.53, 144 cases, $82. Vineyard is named after proprietors Al and Janis McWilliams who call each other “bird” and live next to these vines. This 3-acre vineyard was planted in 2007 to Pommard, Swan and Calera clones of Pinot Noir. Soils are a mixture of loam and clay loam. Yield 1.25 tons per acre. Only a few barrels are chosen each year to go into this blend. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Shy, but pleasing aromas of plum, blackberry, violet and spice holding up nicely over time in the glass. A spirited wine that combines grace and machismo. The dark fruits attack and saturate the mouth finishing with outrageous intensity. An oak-driven note of coffee is evident but not intrusive. The mix of clones adds an extra dimension to this wine. Score: 93. Reviewed December 12, 2015

Winery: Arista Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay