Russian River Pinot Noir from the much-heralded 2013 vintage purchased in “shiner” (bottle of wine with no label) from one of the best Pinot Noir consulting winemakers on the North Coast.

Ripe but pure, with deftly deployed oak that lifts and elevates but never overpowers. It soars out of the glass with an absolutely gorgeous mélange of wild strawberry, raspberry and black cherry pitched against a supporting cast of earthy, Burgundian-style componentry. The super pretty, super pure nose also has a real spicy, feral quality to it in the best way. Exquisitely balanced on the palate with lush fruit that comes in waves in a long, smooth finish. This is first class Pinot Noir all the way.

Style: Medium, Fruity
Flavors: Cherry, Raspberry

Cam Confidential
Russian River Pinot Noir from the much-heralded 2013 vintage, purchased in “shiner” (bottle of wine with no label) from one of the best Pinot Noir consulting winemakers on the North Coast (winemaker of the year for numerous publications over the last decade, and certainly a huge force in the success of California Pinot Noir). This wine normally retails anywhere from $32-$42/bottle depending on the cuvée, and you’ll be able to do your own detective work as the producer’s name is on the cork (though not the consulting winemaker). There were two bottlings available - I tasted each and this was the best one.

Vinification
Online price: $18
Vintage: 2013
Appellation: Russian River Valley 100%
Grape: Pinot Noir
Alcohol by volume: 14.4%
Cases Produced: 300
Drink/Hold: Now through 2025

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