2010 A.P. VIN Kanzler Vineyard Pinot Noir

This wine is composed of grapes from the Kanzler vineyard which is located in the northern portion of the Sonoma Coast appellation. The Pinot clones used were 667 and Pommard Pinot Noir clones. The wine was aged for 11 months in 50% new French oak barrels and is a 200 case production.

On the nose I get incredibly expressive aromas of fresh candied blackberries, mixed berry preserves and/or syrup, sandalwood, sea salt mineral, and a touch of mocha.

On the palate I get a quite aggressive acidity and full flavored mixed berry medley, that expresses a ripeness and generous fruit forward palate, and a cedar and toasted oak finish. This wine is very young and powerful, and doesn't at all try to demonstrate the essence and subtlety of the varietal. However, it expresses the bold fruit flavors and ripeness that can only be found in California Pinot Noir.

I see this wine improving in the next couple of years and easily becoming more melded together and perhaps a tad less aggressive and brash. It's packed full of power, fruit, alcohol, and sheer deliciousness, but needs to calm down a bit. This is a Burgundy fan's nightmare, but a Sonoma hog's braggadocious indulgence. 91+ points