This is the biggest wine of the three 2011 Pinot Noir offerings from Derek Rohlffs of Bravium, but it’s big in a very elegant way. It’s a blend of 7 different clones from Signal Ridge Vineyard in the Mendocino Ridge appellation, an area known for its success with Zinfandel. This should have some vineyard owners thinking about grafting over some Zin to Pinot, as unlikely a transition as that may seem. Bright aromatics include cherry, damp earth, cola and mild truffle and pepper notes. Vibrant acidity props up the palate profile with direct translation of aromas to flavors and a long finish that adds an interesting touch of cranberry. This is a winery to watch!
Bravium, Mendocino Ridge (California) Pinot Noir 2011
By Rich Cook