Fog Crest is a new player on the Russian River Pinot scene and judging from this effort a reasonable Pinot lover would have to say the husband and wife team, James and Rosalind Manoogian, are off to a good start. The 2012 takes the high road of finesse over power, but doesn’t lack for flavor, exhibiting an intense red-fruited palate with good balance and a touch of grip on the finish. The future for this small producer (they have 10 acres) would appear to be very bright.
Fog Crest Vineyard, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County) Pinot Noir 2012
By Robert Whitley