Shady Lane 2006 Pinot Noir: Review

Leelanau Peninsula

Shady Lane Cellars

Suttons Bay, Michigan, USA

Shadylanecellars.com

12% abv

$18.00

Shady Lane Cellars is a nice little winery found on the Leenlanau Peninsula somewhere between Traverse City and Suttons Bay. 

Appearance: somewhat transparent, light ruby with amber edges, the amber could be coming from the age of this wine. 

Aroma: herbal/spice hits me first and then there are some red berries that fill the bouquet out along with a light earthy tone and a touch of smokiness.  An overall pleasing aroma.

Flavors: Nice mixture of red cherries and berries.  It reminds me of tart cherries and a slightly acidic cranberry with a touch of strawberry.  The green herbal quality hits at mid-point on the palate and then it finishes with a pleasing spicy style and a touch sour oak.  

Mouthfeel: there are tart, sour, and acidic notes playing on the palate.  Along with the spice on the finish there is a lingering tart/sour quality that leaves a slightly bitter mouthfeel. 

My Strength Rating: 6.5/7 – the mouthfeel brings the rating up quite a bit.  A worthy wine to pick up.  It has a nice stimulating style that should wake-up the palate.