2011 Kistler "Kistler Vineyard" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

The 2011 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard (made primarily from the Calera clone), which sees one-third new oak and is 100% destemmed, possesses lots of raspberry and black cherry fruit intermixed with hints of underbrush and forest floor, and a nice meatiness to its texture. There has been a progressive trend by Kistler‰۪s winemaking team and owners to harvest at slightly lower sugars, back off slightly on the percentage of new oak used, and bottle their wines earlier. All of this is designed to preserve as much fruit and freshness in the wines as possible. (RP)