Wente Reliz Creek Pinot Noir

An estate-grown California Pinot Noir from Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, produced by Wente Vineyards. It is sourced from sustainably farmed vineyards along the Reliz Creek drainage and reflects cool-climate intensity and gravelly terroir. Wente Vineyards was founded in 1883 by C.H. Wente in the Livermore Valley. The Reliz Creek fruit comes from estate vineyards in Arroyo Seco, where cool Pacific air extends the growing season. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, followed by 20 months in neutral oak casks and French and European oak barrels. The nose opens with black cherry and ripe strawberry, then cola, vanilla and cinnamon, with subtle earth and cigar box. The palate has bright acidity, cherry and red fruit, toasted oak and cola, with delicate tannins and gentle smokiness. The finish is dry and slightly dusty, with lingering vanilla, oak and soft red fruit.