Cherry Pie, Carneros (Napa Valley, California) Pinot Noir 2021

 Ah… branding.  There’s no marketplace like the American marketplace, where a simple word or phrase can carry so much trade value for a particular segment of the market that those outside that segment can miss out at best, or at worst dismiss the product out of hand due to a perceived lack of class or pedigree.  This Cherry Pie Pinot Noir makes a solid argument for not judging a wine by its cutesy label, offering deep black cherry, kirsch, vanilla and fall spice aromas that translate well to palate flavors in a plush entry, zippy package.  There is real brightness that lifts the dark character and extends the finish.  It’s still integrating its sexy oak profile, so a little cellar time will be worth the wait to expose bold elegance.