Traditional Joseph Swan, Calera and Pommard clones are the foundation for Kimberly Pfendler’s Pinot Noir plantings, and this wine displays the pretty, elegant red-cherry and cranberry side of these clones. Made by winemaker Greg Bjornstad, this Pinot has some ragged tannic edges now –typical of the cool region in which the grapes were grown — although they should round out with time in bottle. Put this one in the cellar for four to five years, and watch it blossom.
Pfendler Vineyards, Sonoma Coast (Sonoma County, California) Pinot Noir 2011
By Linda Murphy