Mark West California Pinot Noir 2005

Mark West's Pinot for the people phenom is still on.  The 2005 California offering is just a bit over $10, yet delivers warm, spicy, somewhat smoky deep fruit and a relatively silky texture.  No surprise people continue to buy this one by the case.

The 2005 vintage of Mark West Cali Pinot has 13% Syrah and surprise! 2% Chardonnay.  Alex Cose, Winemaker, reports the source of the grapes was 2/3 Central Coast, 2/9 Sonoma Coast, and the last 1/9 from various good Pinot Noir neighborhoods.  Oak aging was 8 months in French, moderate and heavy toast.

Tasting Notes: Color: Deep dark ruby translucent.  Aromas: Pomegranate, baking spice, bacon fat (I would have guessed there was some Syrah in this one due to this aroma) and forest.  The mouthfeel is light-to-medium-bodied, easy, dry but not drying.  Tart pomegranate and cola flavors are actually fairly lush and finish well.

Excellent Value ($11).  Closure: Artificial "neocork".  Alcohol content: 13.8%.

Winewaves last reviewed the 2004 Corsican offering of Pinot by Mark West.