🏰 The 2012 Aubert Ritchie Vineyard Pinot Noir is an 【exceptional California Pinot Noir from a top producer, known for its textural richness and intense, full-bodied style】. Mark Aubert considers 2012 one of the greatest vintages he has seen, with good rain and a healthy crop. The 2012 vintage for California was generally good, resulting in a huge harvest. Aubert's Pinot Noirs undergo extended macerations and are aged for about 14 months in barrel. It offers notes of cola, root beer, black cherry, dusty, loamy soil, and foresty nuances. The palate is deep and medium to full-bodied with fresh, lively fruit, chocolate powder, pastille, rhubarb, black tea, and baking spice. It's described as having a full body by Pinot standards, with good length and texture, and a long finish. 🍴 This savory and classic Pinot Noir pairs well with duck, goose, game birds, all types of classic meat dishes (veal, pork, beef, lamb), roast chicken, ribs, hamburgers, barbecue, and stews. It also complements Asian dishes, hearty fish like tuna and salmon, mushrooms, and pasta. 🥂 Ideal for a celebratory dinner, a special occasion with friends, or a sophisticated barbecue. Decanting for 1-3 hours is recommended for young vintages, and 3 hours for this 2012 vintage.