California Pinot Noir From Monterey County

California's Monterey County is thought to be a good region for Pinot Noir, with good reason. The weather is cool, just the way the grape likes it. The 2021 Talbott Pinot Noir is a good example of California Pinot. 

The grapes were grown in the Santa Lucia Highlands, the Sleepy Hollow Vineyard, to be precise. This Talbott estate vineyard is located on the northeastern edge of the AVA. Alcohol sits at 14.9% abv and it sells for about $43.

This wine shows a medium ruby color in the glass. The nose displays aromas of plum, blackberry, and black tea. On the palate, black fruit dominates, there is a cola note and some traces of coffee in the sip. Big fruit with a savory side is no surprise in a California Pinot Noir and it delivers here. Minerals play a large role, while the tannins are medium firm with an astringent quality. The finish is long and savory.

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