Belle Glos Meiomi Pinot Noir 2011

I have had the last three or four vintages of this wine, and I have to say that it is hands down my favorite pinot noir for under $25 ever; it often outperforms wines at twice it's price. Buy it and drink it with earthy mushrooms, savory duck or just by itself.

Pours a deep purple tinged red. Aromas of violet, overripe raspberry and vanilla laden oak with subtle spice. The wine is silky smooth on the palate, betraying only a touch of it's 13.9% ABV; mouthcoating and surprisingly rich. A touch of sweetness, but none of the Dr. Pepper or cola notes that can dominate these wines. Unquestionably Californian; there's no mistaking this for a Burgundy. Could cellar for a year or two, good luck hanging on to it that long.