Laetitia Vineyard & Winery, Arroyo Grande Valley (Central Coast, California) Pinot Noir 2018

 It’s rare to see a Pinot Noir of this stature for less than $30 a bottle.  The grapes for this fruit-forward Pinot Noir come entirely from Laetitia’s vineyards, which means they control all of the farming, and, importantly, the timing of the harvest.  It conveys bright and ripe red fruit-like flavors without being over the top or jammy.  A whiff of vanilla from oak aging doesn’t dominate or overwhelm the wine’s fruitiness.   Tannins are fine, making this suavely texture Pinot Noir ideal for current consumption.