Quick-Sip: On not taking California Pinot for granted

Lucienne Pinot Noir (2006)
Lucienne Vineyards
Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands - Lone Oak Vineyard

Appearance: Clear with medium cranberry red color.

Nose: Clean, developing, with medium intensity. Aromas of cedar, cherry, plum, strawberry, floral/perfumed notes, spice and cinnamon.

Palate: Dry with medium acidity, well integrated alcohol (14.5 abv), medium tannin, and body. Flavors of cherry, strawberry, vanilla, spice, red fruit,. Bright cherry, medium intensity with a long finish.

This was a great wine. Typically I find myself avoiding Pinot Noir from south of the Bay Area because I don't care for the warmness of the high alcohol. This bottle was really well integrated though - fuller fruit balanced it nicely to where it wasn't overpowering. Clearly I'm constantly needing to relearn to not blanket judge all wines - and as much as I preach this to others you'd think I would know better.

I can definitely say that if you don't like the earthiness of Burgundy, and Oregon's offerings aren't full enough for you, definitely check out this bottle, which retails around $45.

Cheers!