I have just returned from Lebanon and the UK, so Moxie decided to cook a meal for me and Beef Bourguignon it is!  She did not venture into the cellar for a bottle of Pinot, opting to remain clear and go directly to the wine shop where she picked up this $11 California offering.  It shows medium opacity and a somewhat dull ruby color with medium looking legs (13.8% ABV).  The nose is interesting for a New World Pinot- there’s quite a bit of earthiness to alongside the cherry, pomegranate and raspberry aromas.  I also get some baking spices and a touch of funky red licorice.  The palate is dry with very lithe tannins and low acidity.  It’s a fruit forward wine that bursts with cherry and strawberry, pomegranate and black raspberry.  The spices are present but very subdued.  Medium bodied with a short finish- quite tasty.  This is a not an age worthy wine, but it rocks as a pop-n-pour and doesn’t break the bank.  It gets 87 points from me and 4 stars.  Very smooth and appealing.  Drink till 2025.  Salut….