2018 Richard G Peterson Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands

Coming from the cooler Santa Lucia Highlands located south of Monterey Bay and aged 16 months in French oak, the 2018 Pinot Noir reveals a translucent ruby color to go with perfumed notes of framboise, ripe strawberries, spring flowers, violets, and hints of loamy earth. It's beautiful on the palate as well, with its oak nicely integrated, a medium-bodied, light texture, and just terrific overall balance. It's already a joy to drink, and I see no need to delay gratification.