It’s official, I’m a Pinot-phile!  It’s hard not to be when you have such great friends supplying delicious wine (see other examples here, here, and here)!  

The same friends that introduced us to Wild Hog Vineyard over Easter, brought out the good stuff with this 2011 Wild Hog Pinot Noir from Saralee’s Vineyard.  Wild Hog purchases grapes from this esteemed vineyard estate, blending 7 or 8 different clones chosen for their specific taste profile.

There was an intense smokey-ness and funk on the nose.  The palate was a mix of smokey vanilla, black pepper and dark red fruits, plum and black cherry; it was an enticing combination with incredible depth but yet didn’t feel heavy or overpowering.  It was just simply delicious and elegant.

Unfortunately I don’t think this vintage is readily available anymore.  If you’re interested in checking out Wild Hog (and I highly suggest you do), you should contact the winery to get on their mailing list!