Ryan Cochrane 2014 Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley)

Country: US / Solomon Hills Vineyard
Variety: Pinot Noir California
Winery: Ryan Cochrane / Santa Maria Valley

The eponymous winemaker of this brand is based in San Francisco, from which, in this bottling, he turns out a stunner. Focused, intense, energetic and yet delicate, the nose is full of just-ripe raspberries, bay leaf, thyme, eucalyptus and chipped slate. A sip reveals crushed herbs galore, from oregano to anise, set against tart pomegranate and red plums. Menthol shows on the finish.