2013 Martin Ray Reserve Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.61, $40. Released March 2015. Sourced from Emeritus Vineyard in Annapolis. Harvest Brix 24.6º. Grapes are de-stemmed, saignéed for concentration, 3-day cold soak, nearly 33% whole cluster, 10-day fermentation in open-top bins, and aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 60% new, with monthly battonage. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Shy aromas of blackberry jam and turned earth. Mid weight plus flavors of créme de cassis, blackberry and subtle dried herbs. Somewhat brooding and thick, with a balanced structure and some cut on the fruit-driven finish. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine still lacked character with the fruit seemingly asleep. Perhaps cellaring will prove of benefit. Score: 88. Reviewed April 22, 2016

Winery: Martin Ray Winery
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir