2011 Dehlinger Pinot Noir Goldridge Vineyard

Soft, succulent and inviting, the 2011 Pinot Noir Goldridge Vineyard is very pretty today. Dark red cherries, tobacco, mint and new leather all flesh out in a perfumed, resonant Pinot to drink now and over the next decade or so. Bright saline notes from the long, cool growing season ring out on the vibrant finish.

The 2011 Pinot Noir Goldridge and 2010 Pinot Noir Goldridge both came from cool years. Their differences in color are not quite as dramatic as those for the Altamont, but the 2011 Pinot Noir Goldridge exhibits a slightly lighter hue to its dark ruby color. Sweet black cherry, flower and spice aromas are present in the aromatics of the 2011, along with fresh, tart acids and a more compact, medium-bodied mouthfeel. This delicious Cote de Beaune-styled Pinot should drink well for 5-6 years. The ever reliable Tom Dehlinger continues to turn out realistically priced wines of exceptionally high quality. Their newest offerings, the Altamont Pinot Noir and Syrah, come from a hilltop vineyards planted in gravelly red soils previously called “Estate.” The Frei Road Syrah emanates from a 2.5-acre block of what was the Martinelli-owned Zio Tony Ranch. Dehlinger has never been one to utilize a tremendous amount of new oak for their Chardonnay program, and both the 2010 and 2011 Estate Chardonnays reflect that. Tel. (707) 823-2378

The 2011 Pinot Noir Goldridge Vineyard bristles with energy. Dark raspberries, flowers, spices and crushed rocks jump from the glass. There is a sense of focus and pure tension in the 2011 that is highly appealing. Savory, saline notes appear on the finish, adding further brightness. This is a promising wine from Dehlinger.