Gary Ferrell, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, 2006

Perhaps it is the cold soaking, and short, slow, low tempterture fermenation, or maybe the use of 1/3 new oak barrels for aging, but the result in the Gary Ferrell, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, 2006 is a complexe and delicate wine. At first glance the four-year old wine looks prematurely aged, with its light red brick-bown color, which raises some concern for the aging potential of this wine. The aromas are subtle and complex, spicy with black cherry, smoke and earth. The attack is brisk,with good acidity, well restrained fruit, and continued freshness on the long finish. It's hard to find a California pinot that holds back on over extraction and excessive oak, bu this Sonoma wine tacks into a traditional burgundian headwind with style. Score 15/20, drink now.