The 2002 Pinot Noir Shootout
Passionate About Pinot Noir
= Love at First Sip
Davis Bynum Rochioli Vineyard 2000 Le Pinot, Russian River Valley $85.00
Black cherry and raspberry with vanilla and hints of chocolate...pure pinot on the nose. A wine of wonderful balance and complexity. A long rich finish puts everything in proportion.
(94)
Villa Mt. Eden 2000 Grand Reserve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $23.00
Aromas of bright cherry and plum spiced fruit develop into a rich and balanced wine with the right touch of barrel elements. Deliciously luscious and super extracted.
(94)
Papapietro Perry Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $34.00
Cherry and cranberry fruit with hints of mocha and cinnamon aromas carry through onto the palate . A very approachable wine with many layers of flavor all nicely balanced.
(93)
Stephen Ross 2000 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, South Central Coast $28.00
Round and lush with blackberry and cherry fruit on the nose replicating on the palate with additions of concentrated vanilla and licorice flavors. A delicious wine with many nice things happening on the nose and palate.
(93)
David Bruce Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Carneros $35.00
Lots of fruit with strawberry, cranberry, and plum in a jammy blend which carries forward with mint and dark chocolate. An elegant mouthfeel with a rich smooth texture and a long lingering finish.
(92)
David Bruce Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County $25.00
Spicy cigar box and leather aromas lead to ripe cherry, sweet plum, and strawberry jam flavors. The finish just keeps on going.
(92)
Domaine Carneros 1999 Estate Grown Pinot Noir, Carneros $34.00
A deep garnet color with black cherry, cassis, ripe plum flavors, and violets on the nose. The flavors carry through onto the palate. Concentrated and rich. An opulent wine.
(92)
King Estate Winery 1999 Reserve Pinot Noir, Oregon $35.00
Rose petals and cherry on the nose lead to raspberry and dried black fruits on entry. Cocoa and vanilla with a touch of leather and mushrooms added mid-palate. A nicely balanced wine with a long lush finish.
(92)
Trentadue Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $28.00
A complex wine with a lovely pinot noir nose of bright black cherry and plum fruit. Good depth and extraction. Rich and full on the finish.
(92)
Bouchaine Vineyards 1999 Gee Vineyard 20th Anniversary Pinot Noir, Carneros $50.00
Smoke and spice on the nose lead to black cherry, strawberry jam and plum flavors on the palate. Well balanced with concentrated flavors all around.
(91)
David Bruce Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $35.00
A very distinctive nose of rose petals, fig, and caramel. Blackberry and cherry cola flavors with a hint of licorice and black pepper in the mouth. Finish falls off faster than expected.
(91)
Testarossa Vineyards 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands $55.00
Dark plum, blueberry, candied spice, and intense cherry in the nose develop into a well-balanced wine with a lot of character and depth.
(91)
David Bruce Winery 2000 Windsor Gardens Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $40
A deep ruby red color entices you to inhale the aromas of ripe plum and cherry which carry through onto the palate. Spice and toasted oak complement the fruit with light tannin on the finish.
(90)
Deerfield Ranch Winery 2000 Cohn Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County $48.00
Black fruits, cherry and spiced fruits on the nose. This Pinot Noir has bright acidity and good balance with a finish that falls just short of rich.
(90)
Domaine Danica 1999 Pinot Noir, Carneros $33.00
Forward raspberry and cherry pie filling aromas are joined on the palate by subtle spice and oak characteristics. A nicely balanced wine...rich and ripe on the big finish.
(90)
Kent Rasmussen Winery 1999 Pinot Noir, Carneros $28.00
Toffee and coffee surrounding ripe plum create the aromatics with strawberry fruit and mint flavors to follow. The wine has a long rich finish with bracing acidity.
(90)
Papapietro Perry Winery 2000 Peters Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast $38.00
Sweet black fruit with cherry and assorted spices combine with a touch of licorice on the nose and palate. Great balance and a lively finish.
(90)
Peterson Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley $28.00
Bright garnet color with lots of fresh strawberry on the nose leads to a big burst of wild strawberry and ripe cherry. Cedar, caramel, and Asian spice enhance the palate and proceedto the nicely focused finish.
(90)
Windward Vineyard 1999 Monopole Estate Bottled Pinot Noir, Paso Robles (Westside) $30.00
Forward spiced fruit of tart cherry and wild berries aromas. A muscular style Pinot Noir that Syrah lovers will appreciate.
(90)
= An Affair to
Remember
Barefoot Cellars 2001 Reserve Pinot Noir, Sonoma County $15.00
Sweet strawberry, ripe cherry touched by light spice and a nutty character on the nose. A hint of earthiness works with the lush mouthfeel and lingering finish.
(89)
Echelon 2001 Pinot Noir, Central Coast $12.00
A very distinctive wine with notes of sweet bing cherry, toasted oak and caramel in the nose. A slight sweetness on the palate with plum flavors on the finish. The finish falls a little short but there's a lot to take notice of here.
(89)
Testarossa Vineyards 2001 Palazzio Pinot Noir, Monterey County & Santa Barbara $32.00
Deep red fruits and a smokey barrel character lead to round and lush mouthfeel. Perhaps a little young but should age very gracefully.
(89)
Baileyana Vineyard 2000 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley $23.00
Cherry, lots of spice and cocoa on the nose with strong oak character dominating the palate. Finishes long with lingering fruit.
(88)
Dutton-Goldfield Winery 2000 Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River-Green Valley $40.00
Bright strawberry and black cherry aromas lead to a full mouthfeel. A hint of barnyard in front of the smokey spice elements in the mouth. Tannins that should soften with age dominate the finish.
(88)
Handley Cellars 2000 Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley $25.00
Eucalyptus and herbs on the nose open to lush cherry and strawberry flavors followed by tannins which appear to mask the finish. May soften with time.
(88)
Baileyana 2000 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley $23.00
A gamey nose leads to blackberry flavors in this well-balanced wine.
(87)
Crane Canyon Cellars 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $24.00
A lovely nose of violets and berries that evolves into a soft smooth wine in the mouth with a very good finish.
(87)
David Bruce Winery Estate Bottled 1999 Pinot Noir, Santa
Cruz Mountains $50.00
A dense nose with notes of bright cherry, earth, mushrooms, and oak developing into flavors of plum, cherry, and lots of other goodies. A big wine, yummy now or cellar.
(87)
David Hill Winery 2000 Estate Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $15.00
A lively nose of lavender, rose petals, and a touch of earthiness opens into strawberry flavors and a long finish, a bit light on the tannin.
(87)
Gloria Ferrer Champagne Caves 2000 Pinot Noir, Carneros $24.00
A leaner more finessed style showing nice balance between strawberry fruit and earthy spices.
(87)
Gundlach Bundschu 1999 Rhinefarm Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Valley $26.00
Super concentrated berry and jam aromas develop into delicious Pinot - berry flavors complemented by oak and acidity.
(87)
Kathy Lynske Wines 2001 Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand $33.00
Sweet plum and blackberry fruit aromas combine with lively spice and a sweet tobacco sense on the palate, all in the framework of nice balance. Well made and looks to improve with age.
(87)
Kenwood Vineyards 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $17.00
Gorgeous clarity, this wine has cherries, wild berry, and mushrooms in the nose with red licorice notes on the palate. Seamless and elegant.
(87)
La Crema 2000 Pinot Noir, Carneros $26.00
An elegant nose of coffee overlaying lilacs and raspberry. The flavors carry through onto the palate with coffee, clove, and some oak backnotes. A nicely balanced wine with a lovely texture and cleansing acid on the finish.
(87)
Lafond Winery 1999 Lafond Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Ynez Valley $35.00
A deep garnet color with a touch of blue. There is touch of meatimess along with blackberry, plum, and cherry on nose and entry. The wine is medium-full bodied with full, round tannin and cleansing acid mid-palate throughthe finish.
(87)
Orfila Vineyards 1998 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley $35.00
Aromas of strawberry, rhubarb, raspberry, mint, cinnamon, and Asian spices evolve into flavors of strawberry, spice and mushrooms with an appealing earthiness.
(87)
Pessagno Winery 2000 Spring Grove Pinot Noir, San Benito County $27.00
A wine with lots of character offering black currant and raspberry fruit defined and complemented by a touch of chocolate and spice.
(87)
Rodney Strong 1999 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $30.00
Complex aromas of vanilla, earth, wild game, and bacon evolve into a plush, deep and luscious wine that is spicy with vanilla, dark cherry and wild strawberry flavors. Delicious!
(87)
Russian Hill Estate 2000 Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $38.00
Rich strawberry, ripe cherry and raspberry fruit with distinctive strawberry jam and rose petals on the nose that carry through onto the palate make this a very appealing wine.
(87)
Siduri Wines 2000 Muirfield Vineyard Pinot Noir, Oregon $48.00
A beautiful nose of cherry, menthol and black licorice develops into forward cherry flavors touched by oak, a very structured wine with a long finish.
(87)
Sunce Winery & Vineyard 2000 Franicevic Series Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast $30.00
A well-balanced wine with good cherry and raspberry fruit components. The finish is long with cleansing acidity.
(87)
Artesa Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $25.00
Fragrant with aromas of cooked cherries, ripe cherry and red meat develop into cooked red fruit mid-palate. This is a complex wine and well-structured wine.
(86)
Benton-Lane Winery 1999 Reserve Pinot Noir, Oregon $30.00
The nose on this youthful wine is still closed but the flavors are rich and spicy with a long finish.
(86)
David Bruce Winery 2000 Gemelli Vineyard Pinot Noir, Cienaga Valley $30.00
Very concentrated color with lots of brown spice and pastry notes on the nose. The mid-palate is ripe cherry, strawberry, and black cherry. The texture is very nice - soft and smooth.
(86)
David Bruce Winery 2000 Windsor Gardens Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $40.00
This wine has a deep pink rim with a light ruby opaque center. The nose is intense with earthy and mushroom notes with lots of oak. This is a big wine, highly extracted with plum and cherry flavors. Should age nicely.
(86)
La Crema 2000 Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley $26.00
An elegant wine with light cherry and backnotes of rose petal on the nose, jam flavors on the palate, soft tannins and a touch of bitter herbs on the finish.
(86)
La Crema 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $35.00
Raspberry and cherry with cola accents on the nose develop the same flavors on the palate. The finish falls a bit short.
(86)
Miramar Torres Estate 2000 Don Miguel Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River-Green Valley $32.00
A rich red ruby color leads the way to a palate of stewed plums and cherry preserves. Mushrooms and spice enhance the fruit aromas all in the framework of a nicely balanced and well-structured wine.
(86)
Monticello Vineyards 2000 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley $34.00
A lovely nose with violets, roses, good fruit, and earthy complexity that carries through onto the palate.
(86)
Paraiso 2000 West Terrace Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands $32.00
Very forward vanilla, clove and sweet candied fruit aromas evolve into a mid-palate with fruit flavors, lots of oak. and a long cleansing acid finish.
(86)
Pezzi King Vineyards 1999 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $30.00
A fresh nose with caramel, plum, and cherry developing into raspberry flavors with a touch of minerality joined mid-palate by red licorice and blueberry. There is a slight chewiness to the wine with a spiced, white pepper, finish.
(86)
Richard Longoria Wines 2000 Mt. Caramel Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills $50.00
Deep garnet color with aromas of blackberry and cherry jam are framed with nicely defined spice elements. Finishes very nicely.
(86)
Richard Longoria Wines 2000 Santa Maria Valley Bien Nacido Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley $36.00
This wine has a deep pink edging toward red rim with a ruby center. Aromas of dark cherry, berry, wood, mushroom, damp earth, and cola evolve into flavors of ripe cherry, plum, cocoa, wood, and sour cherry. Lovely mouthfeel.
(86)
Siduri Wines 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County $34.00
A style of Pinot Noir which seems to herald its roots from the "Old World." Richly toasted spice elements surround a deep rich texture yet it all works with nice balance and a firm structure.
(86)
Signorello Vineyards 2000 "Las Amigas" Pinot Noir, Carneros
The nose is interesting showing black raspberry, red cherry and mushrooms. The flavors of cherry and sweet oak are integrated nicely. This is still a very young and tight wine.
(86)
Stonehedge Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, California $10.00
Candied, Jolly Rancher Cherry, aromas lead to intense fruit flavors with great acid.
(86)
Testarossa Vineyards 2000 Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands $55.00
Beautiful aromas invite you to taste this delicate wine with flavors of cherry, cassis, lots of clove, and cinnamon.
(86)
Amity Vineyards 1999 Winemakers Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $30.00
The nose is a pretty strawberry and raspberry combination with a slightly gamey note. The mouth has slightly tart black cherry and strawberry flavors.
(85)
Castle Vineyards & Winery 2000 Los Carneros Sangiacomo Vineyard Pinot Noir, Los Carneros $24.00
A delicate wine with pretty plum, berry and smoke aromas developing into a burst of forward fruit on the palate.
(85)
Claiborne & Churchill 2001 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, San Luis Obispo $20.00
Aromas of rose petals, toasted nuts and raspberry with touches of earthiness and barnyard lead to rich fruit and spice flavors on the palate. Evokes memories of Chambertin Village wines.
(85)
Davis Bynum Allen Vineyard 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $45.00
A lovely wine with violets and plum in the nose blending with touches of oak in the mouth. Nicely balanced. If you like Pommard, you'll love this wine.
(85)
Erath 2000 30th Anniversary Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $30.00
Candylike concentrated plum and meaty notes on the nose with lots of blackberry, blueberry, oak, and high acid mid-palate. The finish is long, loaded with berries.
(85)
HRM Rex Goliath! Wines 2001 Pinot Noir, Central Coast $8.00
Very forward fruit with a touch of oak on the nose and in the mouth, a bit tart on the finish.
(85)
Indigo Hills 1999 Pinot Noir, Carneros $12.00
Rose petal, dark cherry, berry, and a touch of stemminess on the nose. A lighter style - soft with good balance.
(85)
Kendall Jackson Great Estate 2000 Pinot Noir, Monterey County
Lots of fresh berries in the nose, displaying candied fruit with touches of cola and coffee carrying through onto the palate. The finish has a slightly bitter edge.
(85)
King Estate Winery 1999 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $35.00
Mineral aromas with sweet oaky notes evolve into juicy raspberry, strawberry and black cherry on the palate. The wine delivers with nice acidity that carries through the finish.
(85)
La Crema 2000 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast $22.00
Enticing aromas of rose petals, cherry and cooked black fruits with a smoky quality evolve into a wine with lots of strawberry and cherry albeit a bit high in alcohol. Nice on the palate but falls off on the finish.
(85)
Orfila Vineyards 1999 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley/San Luis Obispo $35.00
A big, well-balanced wine laden with cherry flavors on the nose, in the mouth, and on the finish.
(85)
Sebastopol Vineyards - Dutton Estate 1999 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $20.00
A complex wine with a nice balance of raspberry and earthy elements. Wonderful mouthfeel.
(85)
Toad Hollow Vineyards 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $22.00
Medium ruby in color with raspberry jam aromas and backnotes of earth and tarragon. The palate is medium-bodied with round tannins and a smooth but short finish.
(85)
Valley of the Moon Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, 96% Carneros & 4% Russian River Valley $20.00
An intriguing and appealing wine.
(85)
Willamette Valley Vineyards 1999 Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $30.00
A wine that is nicely balanced with fruit and structure. Cola overtones.
(85)
Barefoot Cellars 2000 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County $15.00
The color is deep ruby with black currant and lots of spice on the nose. The style is very masculine with dense flavors and tannins.
(84)
David Bruce Winery 2000 Brosseau Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chalone $50.00
A lovely nose leads to intense jammy fruit of raspberry, cherry and blackberry with a good finish.
(84)
David Bruce Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Central Coast $20.00
This very young wine has nice fruit and spice on the nose and in the mouth. Hints of vanilla and sage. Look for this wine to age gracefully.
(84)
Dutton-Goldfield Winery 2000 Freestone Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley Region $55.00
Aromas of violet and spice cake with nice fruit, good mouthfeel, but a disappointingly hard finish.
(84)
Edna Valley Vineyard 2001Paragon Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, San Luis Obispo $18.00
A lighter Pinot Noir in the Volnay style of Burgundy with great berry aromas and flavors. Nice fruit and acid balance.
(84)
Erath 1999 Melrose Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $40.00
A very delicate cherry nose with hints of spice devop into juicy flavors with a long, concentrated berry finish.
(84)
Gallo of Sonoma 2000 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County $13.00
Sweet black cherry and berry aromas lead to similar flavors on the palate. A simple straight forward Pinot Noir.
(84)
Kendall-Jackson 2001 Vintners Reserve Pinot Noir, California $14.00
A lighter style Pinot Noir, balanced with good fruit and backnotes of juniper.
(84)
Lynmar Winery 1999 Quail Hill Vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County $50.00
An elegant wine with aromas of fresh cherry and raspberry with backnotes of eucalyptus replicated on the palate.
(84)
Navarro Vineyards 2000 Deep End Blend Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley $38.00
Fruit galore here - grapey with raspberries and rose backnotes. Light tannins, lingering flavors but very little acid on the finish.
(84)
Pessagno Winery 2000 Gary's Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia $55.00
Great aromas here with forward clove, cherries, and minerals. The flavors are soft with cherry and cola being dominant. A good wine with nice texture and good balance.
(84)
Russian HillEstate 1999 Leras Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $38.00
Aromas of cedar, chocolate glaze, mint, and cocoa develop into flavors of cherries jubilee with caramel. The finish has sour cherries touched by slight smoke and anise notes. Still a very young wine.
(84)
Savannah-Chanelle Vineyards 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Central Coast $28.00
A bit medicinal at first whiff but opens nicely with lots of dark fruit and cinnamon on the nose evolving into flavors of plum and faint smoked meat with cedar backnotes.
(84)
Sunce Winery & Vineyard 2001 Franicevic Series Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $30.00
This wine is VERY YOUNG and needs some time to develop. Tart berry flavors on entry soften to a creamy wine in mid-palate through the long finish.
(84)
Woodenhead Cellars 2000 Elk Prairie Vineyard Pinot Noir, Humboldt County (North Coast) $42.00
Cherry, vanilla and barnyard on the nose with nice spice, cola and fruit in the mouth. The finish is a bit hot.
(84)
Artesa Winery 2000 Carneros Reserve Pinot Noir, Carneros $40.00
A restrained wine with light aromas of cherry, berry and rose petals. A bit tart mid-palate with moderate acidity.
(83)
Braren Pauli 2000 Pinot Noir, Potter Valley $17.00
An elegant nose of sweet cherry and rhubarb aromas with notes of mushroom evolve into wild berry, plum, cola, and mushroom flavors. There is a bit of residual sugar on the finish.
(83)
Casa Cassara Vineyard & Winery 1999 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills $26.00
Nice bright cherry and leather aromas. A youthful wine, still a little tight but portends good things to come.
(83)
Castle Vineyards & Winery 1999 Los Carneros Sangiacomo Vineyard Pinot Noir, Los Carneros $30.00
A structured wine with cherry and barnyard on the nose, the cherry flavors carry through onto the palate and the finish is rich and full.
(83)
Davis Bynum 2000 Lindleys' Knoll Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $50.00
Medium ruby in color and very youthful. Aromas of raspberry, strawberry, and hints of clove and cinnamon lead to a wine of medium body with plum, cinnamon and licorice flavors. The finish is a bit tannic.
(83)
Firesteed 2000 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $18.00
A light style of Pinot Noir with lots of strawberry in the nose and mouth.
(83)
Galleron 1999 Hanna Vineyard Pinot Noir, Napa Valley $30.00
Aromas of cola, berry and lots of clove evolve into berry flavors overshadowed by oak.
(83)
Hawley Wines 2000 Oehlman Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River $28.00
Aromas of plum and espresso on the nose moving into light red currant and sassafrass flavors with a tinge of green fruit and lots of acid on the finish.
(83)
Gloria Ferrer Champagne Caves 1999 Gloria Ferrer Jose S. Ferrer Pinot Noir, Carneros $32.00
Deep in color, this Pinot Noir has raspberry and cherry on the nose that replicates on entry with notes of earth and cinnamon. Medium in body with full, round tannins and a long finish of berry, vanilla and a hint of coffee.
(83)
Kenwood Vineyards 2000 Reserve Olivet Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $30.00
Spice and fruit in the aromas and in the mouth. The tannins are still a bit harsh on the finish.
(83)
Martini & Prati Winery 2001 Reserve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $27.00
A very inviting nose but isn't delivering the fruit on the palate now. Too young?
(83)
Navarro Vineyards 2000 Methode AnciennePinot Noir, Anderson Valley $19.00
A well-balanced wine with orange peel on the nose, nice fruit and spice in the mouth, finishing with lots of alcohol.
(83)
Paraiso 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands $18.00
Clove and cherry aromas with jammy flavors on the palate. The finish is a bit hot.
(83)
Renaissance Vineyard & Winery 1999 Pinot Noir, North Yuba, Yuba County $28.00
Floral and cherry aromas with cherry and spice flavors.
(83)
Santa Barbara Winery 1999 Pinot Noir, Santa Ynez Valley $18.00
Aromas of leather, clove and cherry develop into a smooth and full-bodied wine with nice fruit elements balanced by acid.
(83)
Savannah-Chanelle Vineyards 1999 Sleepy Hollow Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Central Coast $34.00
Bright ruby in color, there is not much fruit on nose but lots of cinnamon, allspice and black tea. There is spice with berry backnotes on entry through mid-palate. Sour cherry touched tannin and cleansing acid on the finish.
(83)
Sebastopol Vineyards - Dutton Estate 2000 Jewell Block Pinot Noir, Russian River - Green Valley $52.00
A nicely balanced wine with fruit and oak overtones is marred late in the palate with a metallic note.
(83)
Stephen Ross 2000 Chamisal Vineyard Pinot Noir, Edna Valley $40.00
Deep garnet in color with blackberry, black cherry and rich black fruit in the nose and mouth with hints of vanilla, mocha and earth mid-palate through the long finish.
(83)
Tolosa Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, San Luis Obispo $30.00
A deep ruby color tinged with purple, this wine has mixed berry flavors with some sour notes on the nose but opens up to brighter fruit mid-palate.
(83)
Amity Vineyards 1997 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $20.00
A light and lively wine with red cherry, cranberry and cedar on the nose and on the palate.
(82)
Claiborne & Churchill 2000 Runestone Barrel Select Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, $29.00
A bright ruby color, this wine is still very closed. The nose is slightly spicy with cola and menthol notes. There is very little middle mouth but the finish is very pleasant with red berries and mixed spices.
(82)
Cloninger 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, $23.00
A spicy, red berry nose leads to a wine with a silky mouthfeel, round tannins and a lush berry finish with a touch of high alcohol.
(82)
Davis Bynum 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $30.00
Cranberry and light spice on the nose replicate on the palate with additional elements of cherry.
(82)
Eric Ross 2000 Saralee Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $30.00
A lovely wine with a nice balance of fruit and spice.
(82)
Hagafen Cellars 2001 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley $24.00
A full-bodied wine in the style of Chassagne-Montrachet, notes of maple, vanilla, oak, and dried fruits. The tannins are still a bit aggressive.
(82)
Handley Cellars 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands $25.00
The nose is reminiscent of fruit compote with lots of strawberry and carries through onto the palate. The finish has a cleansing acidity.
(82)
Jewell Collection 2001 Pinot Noir, California (60% Santa Barbara & 40% Mendocino) $10.00
An interesting wine, the aromas of very ripe fruit with touches of barnyard lead to ripe cherry on the palate.
(82)
Lafond Winery 2001 Lafond Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills $18.00
Perfume with notes of Earl Grey tea on the nose develop into thick red cherry syrup flavors. The finish is a bit tart.
(82)
MacMurray Ranch 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $32.00
A lovely, fruity nose leads to a light- to medium-bodied wine with cherry as the main flavor component.
(82)
Wente Vineyards 2000 Reliz Creek Reserve Pinot Noir, Arroyo Seco, Monterey $17.00
Strawberry, cinnamon and a touch of green vegetal character on the nose lead to a wine with good mouthfeel and a nice finish.
(82)
Acacia 2001 Napa Valley Pinot Noir, Carneros $25.00
This very young wine is still closed and is currently showing herbaceous notes with little fruit. It needs time.
(81)
Barefoot Cellars 2000 Barefoot Reserve Pinot Noir, Sonoma County $15.00
Spicy fruit aromas with hints of violets evolve into a well-balanced wine with a sweet component.
(81)
Casa Cassara Winery & Vineyard 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills $26.00
Pleasant aromas with notes of green fruit but the flavors show a decent amount of riper fruit and there is a nice floral finish.
(81)
Elkhorn Peak Cellars 1999 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley $30.00
Deep garnet in color with flavors of black cherry, cranberry, cola, and currant on entry. Earth and spice are added mid-palate. The wine is medium-bodied with an acidic finish.
(81)
Eric Ross 2000 Klopp Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $40.00
The nose is odd and doesn't reveal much about the wine. Nice fruit in the mid-palate and through the medium-length finish.
(81)
Martini & Prati Winery Tower Hill 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $18.00
A nice wine...spicy with good cherry and berry jam flavors.
(81)
Pedroncelli 2000 F. Johnson Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dry Creek Valley, $15.00
A very user friendly wine with a raspberry, cherry nose and a spicy charcter added in mid-mouth. The finish is a bit short.
(81)
Pessagno Winery 1999 Central Avenue Vineyard Pinot Noir, Monterey $25.00
An elegant wine with a nice balance of spice and fruit.
(81)
Praxis Cellars 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands $14.00
Cherry, cola and barnyard aromas are joined by an array of spices on the palate.
(81)
Belvedere Vineyard & Winery2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $30.00
A very youthful wine with subdued cherry, berry, cola, and plum aromas. This should be a lovely wine in time.
(80)
Benton-Lane Winery 1999 Sunny Mount Cuvee Pinot Noir, Oregon $50.00
Lots of spice masking the very ripe blackberry in the nose and mouth. The texture is lovely with a slightly tannic finish.
(80)
Bouchaine 2000 Pinot Noir, Carneros $25.00
Deep aromas of cherry, plum, berry, and mushroom develop into a jammy, soft, and appealing wine.
(80)
Firesteed 2001Oregon Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $10.00
A light style Pinot Noir with a touch of sweetness.
(80)
Koves-Newlan Vineyards & Winery2000 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley $20.00
Cola, raspberry, cherry, and a touch of menthol on the nose and mouth in this very light wine.
(80)
Louis Martini Winery2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $45.00
The nose is somewhat closed at first but opens to reveal a layered perfume of floral and berry scents. The palate doesn't deliver what the nose promises.
(80)
Marcelina2000 Pinot Noir, Carneros $32.00
Stewed fruit aromas are subdued by forest floor and mushroom overtones and yet opens into a wine with lush fruit and muscle.
(80)
Michel-Schlumberger2000 Pinot Noir, Dry Creek Valley $38.00
Deep garnet in color with coffee and mocha aromas. The flavors reveal both sweet and tart fruit with backnotes of violets. The finish is tannic but may soften in time.
(80)
Olssens of Bannockburn 2000 Pinot Noir, Central Otago, New Zealand $28.00
A very youthful wine showing cherry mid-palate and some cleansing acid on the finish.
(80)
Renaissance Vineyard & Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, North Yuba, Yuba County $28.00
Not much on the nose but very nice in the mouth with a balance of fruit and spice.
(80)
San Saba Vineyards 1999 San Saba Vineyard Pinot Noir, Central Coast, Santa Maria $23.00
Bright lavender and raspberry aromas replicate on the palate with additional notes of cherry, cola and citrus.
(80)
Savannah-Chanelle Vineyards 1999 Garys' Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Central Coast $36.00
A fruit forward nose touched with earthiness, smoke and mushrooms. The flavors are sour cherries and dried cherries with caramel, blackberries and dark fruit on the finish.
(80)
Testarossa Vineyards 2000 Cuvee Niclaire Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands $68.00
Dusty aromas over black cherry and stewed fruit. Lots and lots of oak.
(80)
Willamette Valley Vineyards 1999 Hoodview Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $45.00
This wine is deep ruby with a subdued nose hinting at black fruit depth. Flavors of black raspberry and black cherry reveal themselves in this medium full-bodied wine with lots of oak and a long, tannic finish.
(80)
= Will Provide Fond
Memories
Amity Vineyards 1999 Schouten Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $30.00
Lots of cola...on the nose, in the mouth and on the finish.
(79)
C. Ramsay 2001 Pinot Noir, North Coast $15.00
Honey, clove, tea, and cranberry on the nose carrying through onto the palate. The flavors are a bit lean.
(79)
David Bruce 1999 Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains $50.00
A soft nose with touches of coffee leads to bright cherry and raspberry flavors overshadowed by horsey aromas that intrude on the flavors.
(79)
Erath 1999 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $40.00
A candied berry nose with touches of pine. Flavors of berry and cooked tomato. A balanced wine.
(79)
Highfield Estate 2000 Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand $32.00
This wine is still very closed and young. We would like to revisit it in six months or so. It could have potential.
(79)
Husch Vineyards 1998 Reserve Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley $31.00
Inviting black cherry jam aromatics develop into flavors of stewed cherries tinged with earthiness.
(79)
Sebastopol Vineyards - Dutton Estate 2000 Morelli Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River - Green Valley $46.00
Vanilla, a hint of citrus and cherry aromas are joined by some oak notes. The wine is thin and a bit hot.
(79)
Sterling Vineyards 2000 Winery Lake Pinot Noir, Napa Valley - Carneros $25.00
The aromas of raspberry, dark fruit and smoke are marred by some green fruit. The mouthfeel is good wtih cherry overtones and cola.
(79)
Tualatin Estate 1999 Estate Grown Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $28.00
The nose is subtle and refined with violet aromas that evolve into blackberry flavors. The oak and tannin are both BIG.
(79)
Willamette Valley Vineyards Freedom Hill Vineyard 1999 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $45.00
A nose of sweet pastry with backnotes of mint lead to flavors of under ripe cherry and licorice. The wine is tannic and a bit alcoholic.
(79)
Arroyo Del Sol Vineyards2000 Pinot Noir, San Martin, California
Medium ruby in color with cherry, plum and rose petal aromas that replicate on the palate with full tannins and hints of tobacco, cola and spice. A bit thin on the finish.
(78)
Barra of Mendocino 2000 Pinot Noir, Mendocino $18.00
Lots of fruit here on the nose and palate turning somewhat bitter on the finish.
(78)
Windward Vineyard 2000 Monople Pinot Noir, Paso Robles (Westside) $30.00
Rose petals, spices and earth notes on the nose never quite materialize into great flavors. This wine is a bit oxidized.
(78)
Crane Canyon Cellars 1999 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $20.00
The nose is loaded with cranberry joined by smoke and dried fruit. The flavors are closed but there is some pomegranate that shows, the finish has clove notes and allspice.
(77)
Willamette Valley Vineyards 1999 Karina Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $45.00
Black cherry aromas are overshadowed in the mouth and on the finish by heavy tannin.
(77)
Amity Vineyards 1998 Winemakers Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Northern Oregon $30.00
Focused berry and cherry aromas do not materialize in the flavors.
(76)
Anapamu2000 Pinot Noir, Monterey County $16.00
Candied aromas are joined on the palate by nice black pepper. The finish is short and sweet.
(76)
Castle Vineyards & Winery 1999 Los Carneros Pinot Noir, Los Carneros $35.00
The color is deep garnet almost opaque. The aromas and flavors of blackberry, bing cherry, vanilla, and black fruit are lovely. The finish is tannic and acidic.
(76)
Louis Martini Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $45.00
Rootbeer, sassafrass, eucalyptus, cola, and cherries on the nose joined by plum on the palate. The wine is a bit awkward in the mouth but is complex and has a nice finish.
(76)
Movia 1997 Pinot Nero, Goriska Brda, Slovenia $38.00
Dark in color with aromas of black cherry, anise and candied cherry. The flavors replicate on the palate but a heavy grapey character overshadows the more delicate features of the wine.
(76)
Murphy Goode Estate Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $35.00
Cherry and raspberry in the nose and the mouth.
(75)
Stephen Ross 2000 Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $35.00
Medium garnet in color, the nose and palate are very peppery, overshadowing the cherry and raspberry fruit.
(74)
David Hill Winery 1999 Estate Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $30.00
Bright fruit and spice in nose, the taste is herbal and the finish is disappointing.
(73)
Maison Marques & Domaine USA Carpe Diem 2000 Firepeak Vineyard Pinot Noir, Edna Valley $29.00
Good fruit here but sulfur overides the appealing elements.
(73)
Amity Vineyards 1999 Sunnyside Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Northern Oregon $30.00
Stemmy, unbalanced and alcoholic.
(72)