2012 Pandol, Pinot Noir, Carneros.
Jenny Pandol, a tiny artisan producer, formerly of Santa Cruz has taken her winemaking talents south, residing in Ventura and her winery in Camarillo these days and looking to establish herself in the Sta Rita Hills region with next year’s release, as this year (harvest 2013) she secured 7 tons of Rita’s Crown fruit, but for 2012 she got her hands on some prime Carneros grapes and the results are stunning, continuing where she left off with the majestic 2008 Alfaro Family Vineyard Pinot she made, the new release from Carneros is a truly wonderful wine. She makes her Pandol Pinot at her Balmaseda Vineyard (Winery) in small lots, the Carneros 2012 production was only 29 Cases, or about a single barrel, so it is not an easy find and she does have a good following, so be sure to drop her a line, at around $35 her wines offer value and distinction, especially this lush and vivid Pinot. The 2012 Carneros, a dark ruby hued wine, starts with a floral rose petal note with black fruit, spice and soft wood notes, the mouth is lavish with sugar beet, plum, bing cherry and raspberry fruits with minty red licorice, lavender, cola and mocha, while hints of forest floor, cinnamon stick and vanilla play in the background in this focused and refined Pinot. This is still a baby and I look forward to watching it evolve over the next 3 to 5 years, but I am convinced there is plenty to offer even now and highly recommend this beautiful effort. There is lush layers, good grip and bright acidity, all is just where it should be, drink from 2014 to 2018.
($35 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
Avail at www.pandolwines.com