Z’IVO Wines 2009 Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills, $35
Sadly, the autumn rains destroyed so much of John Zelko’s crop that he will not produce a 2013 vintage. That’s just another reason to enjoy this release. Estate fruit from clones 115, 777, 114, 667 and Pommard was split off into two lots, with this group fermented primarily as destemmed fruit, as opposed to John Zelko’s whole cluster project. However, the program contributes 15% to this bottling. It offers hints of dark raspberry, cherry syrup, truffle, dark chocolate and whiff of minerality. The entry is smooth and fruit-driven with dark plum, black cherry and more truffle to give it broad flavors. Its tannin structure is rounded, offering a finish of cinnamon, bittersweet chocolate and mint.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 675 cases
Alcohol: 13.4%
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