We have a Super QPR Alert for our Operatives today with a Pinot Noir from Keller Estate that earned 93 points from the Wine Enthusiast. Cooler climates are known for producing deep and intense Pinot Noir, and this wine from the Sonoma Coast overflows with lush fruit flavors while being easy on the pocket book.

Bright ruby from the heart all the way out to a lip which has a slightly more brownish edge. The nose greets you with enticing aromas of butterscotch, dulce de leche and raspberries. More lush red fruit such as bing cherry sits alongside a beautiful smokiness. The palate is an even stronger take of the distinctive, almost archtypical, raspberry not found in the nose. Alongside it is the spice profile, vanillin, and currants. Black cherry becomes more dominant toward the finish. The wine dominates along the side of the palate, the cheeks and the throat, yet after being swallowed, the wine lingers longest mid-palate. Pinot Noir is the most flexible varietal for pairing and this is no exception. Pair with pepperoni pizza or fillet mignon.

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Here’s what the wine press has to say.

93 Points - Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast - “This is a wildly exotic wine, vibrantly abuzz in cranberry, pomegranate and rhubarb, a side note of barnyard-like earth and pretty rose petal. Tight-grained acidity remains firm in the glass and supportive of a grittiness of texture, notes of clove and black tea spiked throughout.”

5 Stars - James Suckling - “Aromas of strawberry, mint and spice follow through to a full body, chewy tannins and a savory finish.”