2009 Pandol, Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains.
Jenny Pandol’s latest release from the Santa Cruz Mountains is an exciting and detailed Pinot Noir with her signature silky texture and lush mouth feel. Pandol crafts small lots of Pinot from sourced fruit and usually under 100 cases are produced, these wines are superb efforts that show focus, subtlety and the artisan touch. The 2009 Pandol Pinot is a vibrant wine with acidity that gives lift and tart firmness to this richly flavored wine that shows delicate details throughout, there is a cinnamon spice and creamy mocha note as well to go with cherry, raspberry and strawberry fruit layers with baked plum, fig paste, anise and sweet herbs adding interest. This medium weight Pinot is best with food and should be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years for the most rewarding experience, though I’m sure it will be charming still in 5 years. The soft hues, hints of mineral and transparent flavors make this a very feminine example of California Pinot Noir that delivers a great value considering the tiny production and pleasure on offer, very nicely done.
($28 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
