The Melville Santa Rita Highlands Pinot Noir from 2009 is darker in the glass pushing opaque and tips the scales at 14.1% alcohol. It smells of dark cherry, almost cherry cola in nature, and violets. It has a mouth-coating texture. The full fruit and full body make a dramatic impact on the palate and the finish is more akin to a heavier red wine with some polyphenols that stick to one’s teeth. It has some astringency from tannin as well. The flavors are ripe fruit, a little leather, tobacco and spice. The finish here is big and upfront. This pinot requires full flavored foods, even a lean steak off the grill. Drink now or cellar for 3-5 years.
