The 2012 Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, which includes 20% whole-cluster fruit, is aged in one-third new French oak and the rest in neutral barrels. There is a slight lactic/chocolate note on the nose at the moment, although there is certainly plenty of red berry/kirsch fruit behind. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannin and well-judged acidity, light red berry fruit with a touch of piquancy on the finish. There is a natural demeanor about this Pinot Noir that I appreciate.