Joel Gott Pinot Noir California 2013: Ripe cherry fruitiness, some cedar and spice, fig, raspberry; juicy, balanced, soft tannin, smooth, wisely gentle on the oak. Joel Gott also makes an Oregon version that sells for about $7 more; California (Santa Barbara, Monterey counties) is the more widely-distributed. Joel Gott is real person; his grandfather was winemaker and president of Inglenook in the 60s and 70s; his father founded Montevina. Joel Gott Winery is partnership with Trinchero Family Estates, which is part of Sutter Home Winery (best know for inventing white zinfandel); Sutter Home is one of the largest family-owned wine companies in US (Gallo is first). Joel Gott is known for affordable, available, consistent quality-for-price pours; this upholds that tradition. $18
