Santa Rita Hills "Fiddlestix Vineyards" Pinot Noir 2015, RN Estate

The Santa Rita Hills AVA is nestled in a coastal area a few miles north of Santa Barbara in southern California. Less than 10% of the 30,720 acres in the AVA have been planted to date. The RN Estate is a small production winery which produces chardonnay, pinot noir, cab sauv blends and cab franc. Tasted in the San Mateo headquarters of Albert Lee Wines Inc, this proved to be an intriguing pinot. The bouquet starts on mint, red cherry, a hint of raspberry. It's slight, feminine and delicate. Lovely poise with some floral notes -- mostly roses -- on the final nose. Intense, concentrated, raspberry and strawberry fruit on the palate. Medium plus acidity which was surprising given the southern California location. Raspberry dominated with a tingly freshness and overall a harmonious wine. The 14.2% alcohol is well contained by the fruit. The 30% whole cluster fermentation works well due to the phenolic ripeness and the 35% new French oak is well-integrated. One of the better and more restrained pinots I have tasted from California. Scores 78/100.