The Pinot Noir Shootout...
A Wine Challenge

Tandem Winery 2001 Halleck Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, $55

87 cases produced
Himalayan blackberry and enticing raspberry aromas and flavors tucked into plenty of oak with fruit to carry over into a finish that deepens and grows. Cleansing and tangy acidity add structure and balance to the already long finish.

(93.2) (Blue Green)

David Bruce 2001 Tondre Grapefield Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands

Intense black fruit and toffee engage the rich, full mouthfeel into giving up baking spices, blackberry jam, black cherry, and roasted chestnut. The appealing vanilla finish remains clean and leaves a smile behind.

(93) (Pink)

Fess Parker 2001 Bien Nacido Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara, $45

268 cases produced
Constructed from ripe fruit and dark wood, gushing with dark berry, pralines, clove, and a cherry bourbon rum and bay hint nearby. Big coffee-like spiciness pulls it all together in the long finish.

93 (Deep Purple)

La Crema 2001 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, $20

1,200 cases produced
Delicately vanilla-spiced cherry jam aromas walk through an earthy structure and finish with light acidity. Raspberry and tea leaf dominate the pretty cranberry and knit together in the end with wonderful, medium bodied flavors.

(93) (Lilac)

Aubin Cellars 2001 Verve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $30

120 cases produced
Hyper-extracted cherry aromas and flavors dominate this venture into Pinot-land. Richness and structure develop well into the cola and plum core as the flavors open up in a big way on the balanced palate.

(92) (Brick)

Chumeia 2001 Pinot Noir, Central Coast, $16

Good flavors of cola, ripe red fruit, and smoky plum are preceded by aromas of leather, light cherry, and spice, ultimately followed by a long berry finish. That's Pinot Noir!

(92) (Magenta)

David Bruce 2001 Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley

Plummy raspberry elegance, medium body, silky tannin, and vanilla spiciness sum up the dark Syrah-like equation that deserves a second glass!

(92) (Light Yellow)

Foley 2001 Barrel Select Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara, $50

232 cases produced
Fennel pollen, tea roses, and shy red cherry aromatics do great justice to the palatable characters of deep plum, sour black cherry, and strawberry sauce flavors. Sophisticated!

(92) (Pumpkin)

Gary Farrell 2002 Starr Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $40

802 cases produced
Exuberant and youthful, minty cherries, tarragon, and fresh berry scented and with bright, bright fruit, juicy fruit flavors softly play around a light, bright candied finish. Very luscious and fun wine, indeed.

(92) (Gold)

Gloria Ferrer 2000 José S. Ferrer Selection Pinot Noir, Carneros

990 cases produced
Invitingly oaky style with red and black berries, cedar, vanilla, earth, and a hint of coffee. Great balance, body, and richness.

(92) (Beige)

Holdredge Wines 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $30

300 cases produced
Cherry vanilla cola with a twist! Rich in the mouth, elegant on the finish, perfect for dinner. Delicious!

(92) (Burgundy)

Jewel Collection 2002 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, $10

Perfectly ripe strawberry perfume intertwines with tight, dark fruit and sweet tannin highlights this full-bodied Pinot Noir. Plum, red berry and cola deepen in the finish.

(92) (Hot Pink)

Peka 2001 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $30 (Taft Street Winery)

223 cases produced
An inviting nose of violets, cedar, raspberry, and strawberry join characters of coffee, chocolate, and bold fruit to create a full-bodied wine with a creamy and balanced finish.

(92) (Wedgewood)

Balletto Vineyards 2002 Balletto Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $24

693 cases produced
Pure cherry fruit plays with cameos of tar, cola, and, earth. The exceptional harmony shows off nice spice and jammy notes while the mouthfeel crushes velvet with the round tannins.

(91) (Black)

Casa de Caballos 2002 Periwinkle Pinot Noir, Paso Robles, $20

Interesting aromas of coconut, toasted almond, sweet cherry, and raspberry fruit, merge with flavors of chocolate covered cherries. Balanced acidity gently eases into a finish quietly echoing nutmeg and clove.

(91) (Light Green)

Chateau St. Jean 2002 Sonoma County Pinot Noir, $19

11,000 cases produced
Currant, cherry-like oak starts the game, red fruit acidity and depth close with an easy win.

(91) (Green)

David Bruce 2001 Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

Coats the glass like deep black licorice paint with a sweet tannin core of meaty cherries and light spice. Ripe and full bodied wine making it a complete package.

(91) (Red)

Fess Parker 2001 Santa Barbara Pinot Noir, $22

7500 cases produced

A deeply fruitful creation, with fresh crushed wild strawberries, Asian spice, maple syrup, and herb scents. Flavors finish with pepper, tea, and leather.

(91) (Brown)

McIntyre 2000 Hahn Chualar Vineyard Pinot Noir, Monterey County, $26

180 cases produced
The provocative nose pulls one in to the voluptuous palate of raspberry jam, and balanced acidity makes the finish memorable.

(91) (Orange)

Seghesio Family 2001 Keyhole Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $28

12,000 cases produced
Blackberry blossoms, tea, and sage aromatics, yummy black cherry cola and plum in the mouth, with smoky espresso notes for closure. Exotic!

(91) (Blue)

Spy Valley 2002 Marlborough Pinot Noir, New Zealand, $27

A sumptuous Pinot nose with dark berry, juniper, blood orange zest, and cherry cola integrates well with spicy and delicious black fruit and nutty oak. Nice acidity and vanilla on the finish bring this wine to a close.

(91) (Purple)

Tolosa Winery 2001 Edna Valley Pinot Noir, Edna Ranch, $25

1226 cases produced
Delicate rose petals, orange zest, and blueberry open into a warm, tasty cherry/boysenberry entry with an elevated cherry juice flavor and plummy exit that is full of finesse.

(91) (Dark Green)

Alapay Cellars 2002 Bien Nacido Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $35

185 cases produced
Luscious fruit with oak support - ripe cherry and lavender aromas, nice and full in the mouth with balanced firm tannin offering age-worthiness.

(90) (White)

Annapolis Winery 2001 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $32

300 cases produced
BIG Pinot noir, with chocolaty oak, hinting at ginseng and graham cracker. Dark soil, caramel, cocoa, pear and white tea flavors dissipate into a nice coffee finish. Very large for Pinot Noir! Enjoy with very flavorful dishes.

(90) (Yellow)

Beaulieu Vineyards 2002 Carneros Pinot Noir, $18

This charmer exhibits good ruby color with bright, clean cherry and pomegranate aromas, light spice and fruit on the palate, and a friendly, low acid finish.

(90) (Gray)

Carneros Creek 2001 Mahoney Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros, $40

675 cases produced
Citrusy and spicy with nice acidity leading into expressive medium-weight plum flavors. Lovely, delicate and elegant.

(90) (Light Blue)

Davis Bynum 2001 Allen Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

S'mores? Please! The purity of fruit and dollop of Asian spice, with black raspberry flavors do great justice to the famed Allen vineyard source. A real treat!

(90) (Turquoise)

Kosta Browne 2001 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

Not only possessing aromas of licorice and fig, but also leans toward cinnamon and leather. Light chocolate, tea, coffee, and other dark aromas turn into green peppercorn and earth flavors. The finish is silky.

(90) (Dark Blue)

Lynmar Winery 2000 Quail Hill "Quail Cuvee" Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $35

1034 cases produced
Mixed berry and spicy vanilla cola knit well with dried fruit to present a Pinot Noir with good varietal character.

(90) (Dark Gray)

Robert Stemmler 2001 Nugent Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $29

6360 cases
Cloves and oak, iodine and bright cherry fragrances envelop cranberry and Asian spiced plum flavors to complete a lush landscape.

(90) (Peach)

Ahlgren Vineyard 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains, $35

27 cases produced
This wine has it all; spice rack, dried cherry, deep raspberry, vanilla, forest floor, cinnamon, red plum, bay leaf, cherry blossom, exotic sandalwood, and lean iodine aromas that travel into perpetuity, hand in hand with a pleasant cranberry finish… and acidity to balance it all!

(89)

Beringer 2002 Carneros Pinot Noir, $12

7000 cases produced
Intensely satisfying red fruit and light foresty earthiness add good architecture to this offering.

(89)

Castoro Cellars 2001 Reserve Pinot Noir, Central Coast $18

830 cases produced
This is like a warm cherry pie with spices still sitting on Grandma's windowsill, offering nothing but temptation!

(89)

Davis Bynum 2001 Three Vineyards Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

Light and tangy cherry-scented elegance leads to subtle fruit on the gentle palate. Delicious wine!

(89)

Fetzer Vineyards Reserve 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $40

1300 cases produced
Soft and balanced heavy toast covers black cherry and strawberry tart tastes, and lifts them forth into the decadently smoky vanilla finish.

(89)

MacMurray Ranch 2002 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $16

Sweet vanilla cherry moves onto bright cherry, plum and berry stuffed into a cedar cigar box and turned over in a fruit basket, all locked up tightly in a web of spicy oak. A wine to love. This is what PN should be about - delicate and elegant.

(89)

Gallo of Sonoma 2001 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, $15

Cherry cola and cassis aromas invite you to enjoy the deep cherry, vanilla and cinnamon flavors offered by this balanced wine. An easy sipping quaffer.

(89)

Gary Farrell 2002 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County/Russian River Valley, $34

6016 cases produced
Cherry jam, juicy fruit, and sassy berry aromas frame a flavor profile of juicy fruit and soft, ripe cranberry acidity. Spicy fruit, earthiness, blueberry and cherry tastiness. The oak is very well integrated, and adds a subtle and quiet coffee finish.

(89)

Peter Michael 2001 Le Moulin Rouge Pinot Noir, Calistoga $65

421 cases produced
Beautifully flavored, almost syrah-like in intensity with its blackberry syrup personality. This is delicious, dark, and extremely rich.

(89)

Rex Hill 2000 Jacob Hart Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $52

196 cases produced
Aromatics of bright cherry fruit, raspberry cream, and sweet lemon verbena blended perfectly with pure, dark sweet fruit. Lovely to drink!

(89)

Robert Stemmler 2001 Carneros Pinot Noir, $29

6360 cases produced
High intensity candied cherry, dark chocolate, strawberry jam, balanced oak, and elegant spice make this a very enjoyable wine. Lovely cola notes with coffee undertones erupt over light strawberry and prune eau de vie while remaining cherry-like through the flavors of baking spices and leather.

(89)

Thomas Fogarty 2000 Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir, $23

2199 cases produced
Wow! Powerful wine with cherry, baking spice, and fresh tobacco. Dark and intense, with anise, spice, and perfumed raspberry that haunt the taster until the red cherry and coffee finish relent. Wine to ponder over and over again. Great complexity.

(89)

ZD Wines 2001 Reserve Pinot Noir, Carneros $48

320 cases produced
Lightly perfumed by vanilla cola, cherry pie, and bergamot, this is a wine to savor, for it finishes with cedar, tobacco, and mixed nuts. A really nice example of Pinot Noir.

(89)

Claiborne & Churchill 2001 C & C Runestone Pinot Noir, Edna Valley $29

136 cases produced
Bacon wrapped cherry aromas tinged with some smoky oak, tangy cherry center, and cedary finish make this a great choice for dinnertime, or anytime!

(88)

Davis Family Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $30

350 cases produced
Very drinkable essences of flowers, forests, and distinct cherry cola lead into a "soft, silky, ethereal finish". An artful wine!

(88)

MacMurray Ranch 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $32

Amazing floral nose of jasmine with a hint of minerally fresh strawberries and shade grown coffee. Bright on the palate with a teaberry finish. We like this wine!

(88)

Michaud Vineyard 2001 Pinot Noir, Chalone, $45

545 cases produced
Complex, subtle, and bright! Like delicious green tea with an orange slice served alongside red apples and cherries. Plenty of oak to weave it all together. The balanced and ripe acid and spice mixture continues to combine through the long finish.

(88)

Rodney Strong 2001 Reserve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $30

1900 cases produced
When Skip Hansen loves a wine, people should listen up! He says: "Bright ruby in color. Aromas of spice rack, cherry, raspberry (mixed red and black), lush medium to full body, floral notes with round tannin, vanilla and a silky mouthfeel with hints of earth, cinnamon, and chocolate. Lush blackberry finish adds depth, length, and character."

(88)

J Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $26

12,500 cases produced
Like seeing a child all grown up, J Pinot hits the balance and comes of age with a really nice Pinot Noir for the dollar. Cranberry, cola, bright cherry, and pomegranate with touches of mushrooms. Bring this to our house anytime.

(87.5)

Gary Farrell 2002 Rochioli Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $60

391 cases produced
Delicate fruit basket of flavor with acidity that weaves around each individual fruit flavor, well knit and textured like fine silk.

(87)

J Vineyards and Winery 1999 Nicole's Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $35

1500 cases produced
Quintessential Pinot Noir style: cherry cola, lightly spiced with cinnamon, mace, and nutmeg. The ever present cherry plays the role of black raspberry in this show stopper.

(87)

Kenwood 2000 Reserve-Olivet Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $30

2157 cases produced
Elegant and fascinatingly mature fragrances of dill, flowers, woodland strawberry, and spice carry through to an interesting cola and earthy/tar finish. Nice black tea notes surrounded by clove and black cherry flavors. The elegant cherry-raspberry finish makes it delicious.

(87)

La Crema 2001 Carneros Pinot Noir, $20

1500 cases produced
A lovely nose of crushed raspberries, kirsch, and earth continues forth into a "big and fresh surprise in the mouth"! Jammy cherry meets leather and strawberry, but shares a table with dried currant, and complete earthy raspberry.

(87)

Lynmar Winery 1999 Quail Hill Requiem Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $60

267 cases produced
Big, rich, and bold with great structure, balance and acid. What a beautiful finish!

(87)

Windsor Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Stockhausen Signature $19.25

2,400 cases produced
May very well be the best wine we've ever tasted from this winery. Truffley and foresty with enough dark fruit and tannin to lead into a great loganberry finish that is borderline gulp-able.

(87)

Wooden Valley 2002 Estate Pinot Noir, California, $10

601 cases produced
Sweetly clean raspberry, along with racy acidity that adds palatable tang to go with a long silky finish.

(87)

La Crema 2001 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $25

1900 cases produced
One for the cellar, or tonight! Who can resist mouthwatering cherry with pretty floral aromas, backed by nice body and silky finish?

(86.5)

Stephan's Cellars 2000 Pinot Noir, York Mountain, $16

180 cases produced
Stunning purity of fruit levitated by wisps of lavender and cedar lend an intriguing quality to this rare offering. Bright acidity and trademark cherry bind it all together in a neat package.

(86.5)

Carneros Creek 2001 Los Carneros Pinot Noir, $25

5,100 cases produced
Strawberry and strawberry jam aromas and flavors. The good mouthfeel is surrounded by bright acidity and cranberry, mushroom, and woody flavors.

(86.3)

Gary Farrell 2002 Rochioli-Allen Vineyards Russian River Valley $60

321 cases produced
Lots of fresh and lively fruit, with serious amounts of black cherry and integrated cappuccino-like oak nuances. Svelte and structured like a wiry long distance runner.

(86)

Landmark 2001 Grand Detour Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, $45

1,100 cases produced
A full throttle powerhouse! Delightful cedar, opulent boysenberry in a well structured Pinot Noir with cleansing acidity on the finish.

(86)

Lost Canyon 2002 Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $38

260 cases produced
A gourmet kitchen amalgamation of bacon, toast, cherry jam, coffee, herbs, and brown spices. A layered and sophisticated wine. Tea like brambly-ness, wild cherry pie, and lavender creep into the dark rich fruity finish dusted with cocoa. Miniscule deviation of the standard, meaning: we all liked it!

(86)

Papapietro Perry 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $38

650 cases produced
Hits the mark again with its curranty, raspberry seduction. Balanced with integrated mocha-like oak flavors.

(86)

Pedroncelli Winery 2001 Frank Johnson Vineyard Pinot Noir, Dry Creek Valley, $14.50

3349 cases produced
Very ripe fruit on the palate, reminiscent of black cherry cola, running parallel with the rich tannins. What a value!

(86)

Rideau Vineyards 2002 In-Circle Pinot Noir, Central Coast

200 cases produced
Mesmerizing nutty aromas and berry-fig compote combine with medium tannin and acidity to form a nicely crafted style of Pinot Noir.

(86)

Rodney Strong 2001 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $18

3700 cases produced
Very Burgundian aromas of green bean, mineral, and crushed herbs. Cola berries with a nice mineral component, some smoky oak and a soft mouthfeel puts this in our shopping cart!

(86)

Savannah-Chanelle 2001 Gary's Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, $35

400 cases produced
Intense raspberry fruit aromas - like smelling Chambord. Black fruit underneath to keep everything flowing until the long and warming finish.

(86)

David Bruce 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

Blueberry and blackberry fruit goes in deep, and continues to expand on the palate with chocolate, cherry, and toasty oak flavors. BIG and RICH, while remaining warm, gentle and soft.

(85.5)

Davis Bynum 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $28

4,800 cases produced
Some very nice spice and cherry inklings meander around a core of ripe plum fruit.

(85.5)

Kenwood 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $17

62,000 cases produced
What a value priced tasty Pinot! Red and purple fruit, some earth and toast unite to bring us a quaffer we can't refuse!

(85.5)

Lookout Ridge 2001 Keefer Ranch Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, $45

175 cases produced
Cherry notes that come around with laser beam precision and expensive oak nuances really let the Keefer terroir show through. Miniscule production adds an almost guilty pleasure quality to this wine.

(85.5)

Michel-Schlumberger 2001 Pinot Noir, Dry Creek Valley, $38

550 cases produced
Tannic monster of a Pinot with cherry fruit rushing up Bradford Mountain to catch it. A bit of air in the glass smoothes everything out into a yummy herbal/fruit amalgamate.

(85.5)

Wente Vineyards 2001 Reliz Creek Reserve Pinot Noir, Monterey

7,000 cases produced
Pomegranate juice before it becomes grenadine, with a hint of kumquat and lemon. Cherry fruit and vanilla notes on the palate.

A well made wine.

(85.4)

David Bruce 1999 Estate Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains

Back in black cherry-raspberry land, but with time in the bottle, the vanilla oak is drifting across the Asian spicy border. Follow it wherever it goes!

(85.3)

David Bruce 2000 Estate Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains

Rich cherry all day long. Medium bodied red built for your favorite wineglass, for it will coat the sides with black raspberry essences.

(85.3)

Amity Vineyards 2002 Sunnyside Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

316 cases produced
Wow! A beautifully balanced dance betwixt fruit and mineral with a full feeling in the mouth.

(85)

Ceja Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Carneros, $38

950 cases produced
Zingy cran-raspberry, tobacco, and fine Corinthian leather scents remind one of Old World Pinot Noir with good flavors and balance.

(85)

Chumeia 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, $28

335 cases produced
A sensuous wine with licorice, forest floor, and full throttle black fruit with touches of cocoa.

(85)

D'Argenzio 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $23

225 cases produced
Pretty spice and citrus wonderfully frame this already pretty red berry picture.

(85)

Domaine Alfred 2001 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley

Very ripe strawberry aromas ride alongside geranium and telltale cherry cola.

(85)

Domaine Alfred 2001 Califa Pinot Noir, Edna Valley

Bright, big fruit, packed with power! Sour cherry in the dry finish is matched nicely with light spice.

(85)

Gloria Ferrer 2000 Rust Rock Terrace Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros

300 cases produced
Rich black currant, black cherry, black coffee, black pepper suggestions actually reveal high toned cherry flavors and bright acidity!

(85)

Hagafen 2002 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, $24

1300 cases produced
An easy drinking chocolate covered cherry flavored red wine with extra hints of vanilla, oak, and loads of fruit.

(85)

Hunter Hill 2001 Hellenthal Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, $30

225 cases produced
The earthy, fruity smells of this wine trick the taster into another sip, and another, and another.

(85)

Jekel 2001 Pinot Noir, Monterey, $15

Clear and bright cherry aromas mix with a light florality to give this wine a more subdued, rich raspberry feel. Exotic fruit and good acidity add zest to a finish loaded with cassis.

(85)

Landmark 2001 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, $25

1050 cases produced
Spicily balanced between floral notes, red fruit and cinnamon, this Pinot offers some lovely sipping.

(85)

Lynmar Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $25

1,772 cases produced
Textbook Pinot with lively cherry and spice aromas and flavors. True varietal character!

(85)

MacMurray Ranch 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $32

Cherry, leather, vanilla, blackberry, and tannic balance. All there and all good!

(85)

Mazzocco 2000 Pinot Noir, Dry Creek Valley

Spices from the Far East and exotic cherry fill the senses and the lively mouthfeel entertains the palate.

(85)

Montinore Estate 1999 Pierce's Elbow Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

300 cases produced
Refreshing cola and cherry aromas and tastes, remaining bright and elegant to the finish!

(85)

Nord Estate 2002 Green Island Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, $18

200 cases produced
The soft, elegant nose of strawberry and cherry almost whispers sweet nothings to the recipient of similar flavors.

(85)

Rex Hill Winery 2000 Maresh Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette, $52

181 cases produced
Clove, berry, mint, and raspberry jam aromas carry over into the palate with sage notes on the finish while the tannins and acidity remain in balance.

(85)

Sunce Winery 2002 PL. Franicevic Piner Ranch Vineyard Reserve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $34

180 cases produced
The most Burgundian of the bunch, yet riper and smoother than most. A great and complex wine to ponder as you sip. Good before, during, and after a meal!

(85)

Windsor Vineyards 2001 Private Reserve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $18

2,341 cases produced
Mature mushroom and dried fruit pressed in paper with cherry flavors. Very nice!

(85)

Lost Canyon Winery 2002 Las Brisas Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros, $38

250 cases produced
Nice strawberry notes join scents of rose petal, flavors of cherry and fruit cocktail, and a finish of elegant tea and clove.

(84.8)

Laetitia Vineyards 2001 Estate Pinot Noir, Arroyo Grande Valley, $25

1,900 cases produced
Leathery cherryberry, coffee, and lush feeling in the mouth, balanced with mouthwatering raspberry acidity.

(84.7)

Handley Cellars 2001 Pinot Noir, Mendocino, $19.99

872 cases produced
Lively and interesting coffee notes charge the olfactory center with promises of awaiting plum undertones.

(84.5)

Arroyo del Sol 2001 Pinot Noir, Monterey

Subtle Pinot Style wine with quiet acidity, shy cherry, and a background of spice add merit to this offering.

(84.3)

Casa de Caballos 2002 Maggie Mae Pinot Noir, Paso Robles, $17

42 cases produced
Ohh goodness, this wine divided our panel. Some didn't care for the rich mouthfeel reminiscent of a Ruchottes- Chambertin Grand Cru burgundy with hints of tea, spice, mint, and mocha toffee oak nuances, and purity of cherry and orange fruit in the finish. Others loved this wine! The controversy leaves more of this wine for me to drink.

(84.3)

Brutocao Cellars 2001 Feliz Vineyard Select Pinot Noir, Mendocino, $25

450 cases produced
Jammy cherry flavors abound, and complement some earthy qualities echoed in the finish.

(84)

Crichton Hall 2000 Pinot Noir, Carneros, $32

950 cases produced
Taut cola-berry in the nose and on the mouth, running alongside cherry, spices, and an inviting meaty quality providing delightful sipping.

(84)

Costa de Oro 2001 Gold Coast Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $20

1,300 cases produced
Cherry and herb mixture touched by subtle toasty oak, a nicely balanced wine. Consistency is a key with this dependable winery.

(84)

Echelon 2002 Pinot Noir, Central Coast, $10

Elegant light berry spice, holiday clove studded orange, and vanilla cherries make this a friendly wine.

(84)

Foley 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $38

Black raspberry from nose to finish with a coating of cappuccino and spice. So integrated and balanced that it is hard to categorize. A layer of crisp, but creamy acidity flows through the mouth. A good sip of wine!

(84)

Fritz Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $27

1,113 cases produced
This lighter styled Pinot Noir is perfect for summertime sipping in Sonoma County, or anywhere for that matter. Dusty and bright cherry flavors are very appealing.

(84)

Handley Cellars 2001 Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, $23

2010 cases produced
Nicely balanced and rich in the mouth, all the while coffee and black fruit carry through from start to finish.

(84)

Jeriko Estate 2001 Pinot Noir, Mendocino, $27

719 cases produced
Fragrant orange peel, melon, and cherry juice, that settles into a light fruit on the palate.

(84)

Lincourt Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, $22

4600 cases produced
Medium weight, body and subtle cherry cola flavors provide anytime enjoyment.

(84)

Lost Canyon 2002 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $36

250 cases produced
Bright and crisp styled wine best suited for food, and carries with it a great strawberry jam personality.

(84)

Matua Valley 2002 Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand, $11

4,000 cases produced
Appealing vanilla, Bing cherry, bay leaf, and green tea aromas are nicely accented by coffee and toast nuances.

(84)

Sunce Winery 2001 PL. Franicevic Piner Ranch Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $32

650 cases produced
Light and expressive plum, cherry, and minty hints knit well into smoky oak and ample acidity.

(84)

Willamette Valley Vineyards 1999 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $22

1,366 cases produced
Bright and interesting qualities of mint tea, fennel and herb mix with fresh strawberry tones to provide early drinkability...how about tonight?

(83.9)

Claiborne and Churchill 2001 Twin Creeks Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, $32.50

140 cases produced
Lots going on here, chocolate, coffee, plum, black raspberry, cranberry, deep black cherry, clove, and cola… all with a bright shot of clean acidity all the way to the finish. Nicely textured wine!

(83.8)

Avila 2002 Laetitia Pinot Noir, San Luis Obispo, $13

10,000 cases produced
Sweet earth and tobacco mesh beautifully with lavender jam on toast, extra cherries jubilee and subtle triple orange liqueur fill the mouth and linger with a haunting presence.

(83.5)

Indigo Hills 2001 Pinot Noir, North Coast, $12

Light bodied with a silky mouthfeel despite citrusy acidity, pomegranate and cranberry create an instant appeal. Judging by the length of the cherry finish, it's a wonder why this wine isn't twice the price!

(83.5)

Sebastiani 2002 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

17,200 cases produced
A spiced candy cherry nose adds instant appeal to this accessible wine.

(83.5)

Stephan's Cellars 2001 Pinot Noir, Central Coast, $20

300 cases produced
Simply cherry and vanilla without pretense or obtrusiveness. Expressive herb and dried berry meet a delightfully spicy finish.

(83.5)

Clos du Val 2001 Pinot Noir, Carneros, $38

2962 cases produced
Scented with notes of "Pinotberry", oak, and cinnamon. The acidity is miraculously velvety AND bright at the same time!

(83.3)

Concannon 2001 Select Pinot Noir, Central Coast, $18

3316 cases produced
Really nice wine with flavors of cherry, berry, cola, tea, and spice. Good varietal character and savory qualities. A palatable and savory meatiness add another flavor level.

(83.3)

Nicholson Ranch 2001 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Valley, $45

435 cases produced
Foresty aromas of spruce and earth complement textbook cherry cola and high toned red currant. Another example of what Sonoma Valley can produce.

(83.3)

Byron Winery 2001 Nelson Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $40

2304 cases produced
Mapley, nutty, toasty oak, and dark blackberry fragrances lead to mouth-coating rich fruit salad palatability.

(83.2)

Fetzer Vineyards 2001 Five Rivers Ranch Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara, $13

20,000 cases produced
Oak and cherry oak and cherry… the aroma train leaves the station to arrive upon the kola nut and lush orange flavored countryside. Yummy value!!

(83.2)

Bodega Catena Zapata 2002 Alamos Pinot Noir, Mendoza, Argentina, $11

This breathtaking wine of medium weight shows vanilla and black fruit characteristics. A real bargain!

(83)

Bodegas Salentein 2001 Reserve Pinot Noir, Mendoza, Argentina, $35

900 cases
Hints of cherry, cedar, and violets merge with an amazing earthiness that leans toward rosemary and sage.

(83)

Casa Cassara Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills, $30

350 cases produced
Touch of mint and mushrooms show as mature, earthy raspberry, clove and cherry flavors.

(83)

Claiborne and Churchill 2002 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, $20

1,062 cases produced
Warm and mild cherry licorice nose and pomegranate balanced with a tart dried cherry finish.

(83)

Dutch Bill Creek 2002 Heintz Ranch Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, $40

473 cases produced
A complex fruit styled Pinot from the famed Heintz family of winegrowers out on the west side of the Russian River Valley. Bravo!

(83)

Landmark Winery 2001 Kastania Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, $45

1,150 cases produced
Cola and tart dried berry notes with cinnamon and vanilla accents. This balanced wine should age very gracefully.

(83)

Martin Family 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $28

300 cases produced
Bright cherry smoke and big spice bring massive appeal to the table with this lovely small production wine.

(83)

Nicholson Ranch 2001 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Valley, $30

800 cases produced
Pine, cedar, anise, cherry, and sarsaparilla round out into a good mouthfeel with a touch of mushroom.

(83)

Ortman Family 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, $34

314 cases produced
Creamy plum and crisp berry fruit flavors linger and linger on the palate. Nice!

(83)

Rex Hill 2001 Carabella Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $52

225 cases produced
A nose reminiscent of summers long ago… flowers and the scent of a fresh cherry lime rickey.

(83)

Schug 2002 Pinot Noir, Carneros, $20

6172 cases produced
Interesting florality and fennel notes give way to elegant cherry flavors in this Pinot.

(83)

Turning Leaf 2002 Pinot Noir, North Coast, $12

Taster David Jones describes it best: "Ripe boysenberry, red rose, and pennyroyal; great depth of cherry, tinged with coffee and citrus finish." And it tastes good, too!

(83)

Willamette Valley Vineyard 2000 Hoodview Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $45

475 cases produced
Lifted and lean blackberry quality with a clove background makes for fun sipping.

(83)

Grove St. Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $10.99

1,300 cases produced
Goodness! Fruit, decent acidity and tannin, with trademark cherry to boot! A case purchase, now that we know the value!

(82.5)

Montinore Estate 2000 Parson's Ridge Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

500 cases produced
Spicy and exotic nuances of cinnamon, sassafras, geranium, and root beer jazz up the enticing repertoire.

(82.4)

Silver Stone 2001 Chualar Canyon Pinot Noir, Monterey, $23

410 cases produced
Nice intense blend of red and yellow fruits bind with rich and extracted raspberry and cherry qualities to last in the long finish.

(82.3)

Acacia Winery 2001 Carneros Pinot Noir, $20

28,385 cases produced
Smokiness and fruitcake scents carry through onto the palate. The tannins are still quite impressive. Lay this one down in your cellar.

(82)

Beringer 2001 Founder's Estate Pinot Noir, $12

30,000 cases produced
Boysenberry and Santa Rosa plum are among the many aromas available in this wine. Nice acidity and subtle vanilla really make the grade.

(82)

Consilience 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, $30

589 cases produced
Nice extracted berry and tar personality greets a nice round black cherry body with cleansing acidity.

(82)

Costa de Oro 2001 Oro Rojo Gold Coast Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $35

400 cases produced
Striking garnet hues lead to passages of fig, raspberry, and bramble, and up again into a pleasing cherry finish.

(82)

Foley 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills, $38

151 cases produced
Plum and espresso notes seem to be this winery's trademarks. A hefty dose of berry fruit tastes just right in the middle of the palate.

(82)

Gloria Ferrer 2001 Pinot Noir, Carneros

An amalgamation of nettles, cocoa, cherry, and raspberry intrigue the taster.

(82)

Nord Estate 2000 Green Island Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, $18

200 cases produced
Black cherry cola aromas spill over cinnamon and strawberry spice with deftly balanced acidity.

(82)

Signature Wines 2001 Blackridge Canyon Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, $19

A supple and balanced example of Pinot Noir with a hint of anise surrounded by expansive flavors of cherry.

(82)

Silvan Ridge 2000 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $19

1,735 cases produced
A cherry jam train all the way to cranberryville, on a first class orange peel ticket.

(82)

Sterling Vineyards 2001 Winery Lake Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros, $28

Loads of cinnamon, raspberry, and pine aromas and flavors. Spicy mushroom and barnyard notes dominate this well-crafted wine from the famous vineyard.

(82)

Sunce Winery 2002 PL Franicevic Rodella Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $34

400 cases produced
Gentle aromas of herb, chicory, and cherry tea carry over into subtle cola and dark fruit compote flavors.

(82)

Willamette Valley Vineyards 1999 Founder's Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $27

987 cases produced
Super dark color with loads of dark roasted fruit extract and back notes of mushroom, cedar and mint.

(82)

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2002 Whole Cluster Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $15

6,700 cases produced
Whole berry fermentation produces fun, fresh, and fruity strawberry and banana flavors.

(82)

Lucas and Lewellen 2000 Lake Marie Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, $18

247 cases produced
Light cherry flavors with a touch of Asian plum sauce, slide away into cinnamon and light citrus on the finish.

(81.8)

Tolosa Winery 2001 "1772" Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, $36

578 cases produced
Refreshing acidity gives quite a bit of charm to the light, spicy strawberry and red fruit flavors.

(81.3)

Black Star Farms 2001 Pinot Noir, Michigan, $19

439 cases produced
This dynamic wine has a medium ruby/plum color with a touch of smoke and coffee hovering over raspberry tart flavors.

(81)

Casa Cassara Winery 2001 Burning Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills, $50

350 cases produced
Elevated raspberry with classic cherry cola and a hint of fruit blossom to stir things up.

(81)

Casa Cassara Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills, $30

600 cases produced
Touch of mint and mushrooms show as mature, earthy raspberry and clove/cherry flavors.

(81)

Eola Hills 2000 Wolf Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $40

500 cases produced
Oak induced scents of anise, clove, and warm cinnamon complement lively and zesty notes of cherry, tangerine flavors and citrus end notes.

(81)

Lafayette Reneau 2001 Pinot Noir, New York, $17

650 cases produced
Red berry in the aroma profile and a minerally cherry note on the palate. With a finish of tobacco, this is a great New York Pinot Noir.

(81)

Lost Canyon 2001 Pinot Noir, Carneros, $38

175 cases produced
This wine exemplifies the mixture of vanilla, cherry, and herb flavors and aromas.

(81)

Ortman Family Winery 2002 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, $34

460 cases produced
Mmmmm..., plum cake, forest berries, and cedary sour cherry on the palate makes us wish we had a plate of short ribs!!

(81)

Paraiso Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, $22

6,000 cases produced
Intense brick color with exotic aromas of white pepper and spices. The bright cherry candy fruit is loads of fun.

(81)

Pellegrini 2001 Olivet Lane Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, $18

5,226 cases produced
Floral, almost geranium essence, followed by tangy black cherry flavors, this wine really exhibits what fruit from Olivet Road addresses can achieve.

(81)

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $45

800 cases produced
Reminiscent of strawberry soda pop on the nose and rich in the mouth with flavors of plum jam and vanilla, finishing lush and elegantly.

(81)

ZD Wines 2001 Carneros Pinot Noir, $30

3700 cases produced
Almost a Pommard character with its charming vanilla cherry aromas and flavors.

(81)

Fiddlehead Cellars 2001 Lollapalooza Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills, $50

Peppery blackberry and raspberry perfume and charming rose hip flavors with plenty of tannin in the finish. May age gracefully.

(80.7)

Edna Valley Estates 2001 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, $15

14,000 cases produced
All the way across the palate lies a warm layer of plummy spice and nuts, with a comforting finish.

(80.3)

Amity Vineyards 2002 Crannell Single Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

176 cases produced
Willamette terroir, including green pepper, green peppercorn, pine needles and spruce. The perfect wine to match with a strong Gruyere cheese.

(80)

Beringer Vineyards 2000 Stanly Ranch Los Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir

1,400 cases produced
Big hidden flavors of bright ruby berry fruit with coffee and cream. Plum, licorice, and vanilla flavors dance with a hint of chocolate on the finish.

(80)

Black Star Farms 2000 Pinot Noir, Michigan $19

325 cases produced
Zesty hints of dill and red berry highlight this Pinot.

(80)

Carmody-McKnight 2002 Pinot Noir, Paso Robles, $22

167 cases produced
A pleasant ruby red entry leads to toasty oak and nice fruit. This wine has a lot to offer.

(80)

Casa de Caballos 2001 Maggie Mae Pinot Noir, Paso Robles, $17

Big fruit, spicy in nature, turns to minerally black cherry, tea and clove profile, with some light vegetal bitterness in the finish.

(80)

Chumeia Winery 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, $28

790 cases produced
Raspberry and cola morph into cocoa and cherry with this impressive offering.

(80)

Cottonwood Canyon 2000 Elizabeth's Vista Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, $48

150 cases produced
Mixed cherry berry scents meet a solid core of cranberry with crisp acid.

(80)

David Bruce 2001 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County

Massive and dark, this powerhouse oozes dark fruit from every nook and cranny. This is what we call a good chew, with its mouth coating, jammy, and pure chocolate covered blackberry flavors. Tannins will soften with age.

(80)

David Bruce 2000 Truchard Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros

Deep cherry fruit comes through big, mouth filling tannin like a fruity laser beam. Eat this wine AS a meal!

(80)

Domaine Berrein 2001 Pinot Noir, Michigan

200 cases produced
Fragrant blackberry and dill, sage and bay light up the nose and palate which also includes youthful cranberry undertones.

(80)

Domaine Carneros 2001 Pinot Noir, Carneros, $27

7,000 cases produced
Spicy oak and gunmetal aromatics float above nice complexity and an assortment of red fruits. This wine did not show all it has to offer but will improve steadily with age.

(80)

Elke Vineyards 2000 Elke Donnelly Vineyard Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, $24

894 cases produced
Consistent and lasting aromas and flavors of light strawberry and herb. A lighter style of pinot for warm weather!

(80)

Etude Wines 2001 Pinot Noir, Carneros, $40

7,600 cases produced
Dark cherry and smoky cranberry fragrances lead to subtle hints of earthiness on the palate.

(80)

Fetzer Vineyards 2001 Barrel Select Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, $19.99

10,000 cases produced
Deep end dark berry scented wine with floral and peppery components, with a medium to light body that is refreshing.

(80)

Gloria Ferrer 2000 Gravel Knob Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros

250 cases produced
The Carneros sun once again shines through and into the aromas, with added appeal of clove and tar. All backed up by impressive levels of volatile cherry.

(80)

Kosta Browne 2001 Cohn Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

Tiny production wine exhibiting lighter body but definitely not lacking in the intense cherry fruit and leather department. Nice!

(80)

Laetitia Vineyard 2000 Pinot Noir, Arroyo Grande Valley, $40

639 cases produced
Almost Cotes du Nuits style with its cinnamon spice, tar, cherry framework. A slight florality adds interest to the nose.

(80)

Lucas and Lewellen 2000 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, $10

2192 cases produced
Pretty teaberry and cherry cola with integrated vanilla and orange peel nuances demand merit throughout.

(80)

Montinore Estate 2000 Graham's Block Seven Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

500 cases produced
A Pinot Noir tip...sip under the Tuscan sun or at least fantasize that you're in Tuscany! Tea, violets, spicy berry, and cherry make up the aromatic profile, followed by tangy berry flavors.

(80)

Parducci Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Mendocino, $9.99

6,000 cases produced
Crisp and lifted citrus nose provides zippy sipping at a decent price.

(80)

Villard Estate 2000 Pinot Noir, Casablanca, Chile $15

1,000 cases produced
Generous oak and mint aromatics give support to the subtle flavors of cherries and currants.

(80)

Wild Horse 2001 Pinot Noir, Central Coast, $22

20,000 cases produced
Bright cherries and a touch of cocoa liven up the other nice aromas like leather, spicy oak, and light strawberries in this fine example of Pinot Noir.

(80)

Amity Vineyards 2002 Schouten Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

291 cases produced
Raspberry nose, mouth, ears, and throat! Raspberry is the watchword here. Balanced oak for spice.

(79.7)

Amity Vineyards 2001 Sunnyside Vineyard Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

95 cases produced
Green tea, green peppercorn and fresh strawberry jam carry through the mid-palate before they pick up cranberry and clove for the ride. Nice acidy makes the ride pleasant.

(79)

Amity Vineyards 2002 Estate Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

315 cases produced
Smells like fresh raspberries straight from the farm, and offers a nice cherry green tea flavor in the mouth.

(79)

Brutocao 2002 Philo Vineyard Select Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, $25

425 cases produced
Bright and food friendly, this is as close to French Bourgogne as California can get! High toned strawberry flavors just keep going.

(79)

Carabella Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley $33

350 cases produced
Light, lean, bright vanilla cherry aromas and flavors end up tangy in the tight finish.

(79)

Chaddsford 2001 Barrel Select Pinot Noir, Pennsylvania, $25

659 cases produced
Nice cedar, cinnamon, and clove in the nose with good steely cherry and anise flavors. All from Pennsylvania!

(79)

Fess Parker 2001 Ashley's Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills $45

260 cases produced
The hidden fruit on the nose just begs for a sip, it turns out that the fennel, tar and strawberry is almost thick on the palate, and finishes with a mouthful of tannin. Should smooth out with age.

(79)

Schug 2001 Heritage Reserve Pinot Noir, Carneros, $30

584 cases produced
Cherry, cherry, and more flavorful cherry from sunny Carneros. This young, tight number should age gracefully.

(79)

Stephan's Cellars 1999 Pinot Noir, York Mountain, $24

150 cases produced
Moving on up in the maturity scale with earth, herb, almond, and cherry notes throughout.

(79)

Toad Hollow 2001 Pinot Noir, Carneros

Crème de framboise aromas commingle with geranium fragrances to lift the flavors of black cherry.

(79)

Windward Vineyard 2001 Monopole Pinot Noir, Paso Robles, $30

1,400 cases produced
Simple and clean aromas of spicy black cherry, layer over rhubarb pie flavors, with a dusting of cinnamon.

(79)

Claiborne and Churchill 2001 Pinot Noir, Edna Valley, $20

556 cases produced
Fresh aromas of basil, spice rack, coffee, and light fruit meet snappy acidity; oak effects carry through the finish.

(78)

Northern Vineyards 2001 Pinot Noir, Minnesota, $15

75 cases produced
Tantalizing scents of new oak and hazelnut pair with cinnamon, cranberry, and black tea flavors.

(78)

Orchid Hill 2002 Pinot Noir, Paso Robles

135 cases produced
Toast and coffee begin and end this light red fruited, stylish Pinot Noir.

(78)

Parducci Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $10

5,000 cases produced
Cran-Raspberry juicy with herbal undertones and a shy strawberry green tea finale.

(78)

Amity Vineyards 1999 Estate Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

341 cases produced
Deep meaty plum notes jump into zingy strawberry on the palate and finish with vanilla oak.

(77)

Benton Lane 1999 Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $30

3,765 cases produced
Lively and lean plum, and spicy berry jam on toast meld with cool weather fruit notes and end with a grip of strong tea.

(76)

Anapamu Cellars 2001 Pinot Noir, Monterey, $10

Oaky Santa Rosa plum, mushroom and light ruby color.

(75)

Elkhorn Peak 2000 Fagan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, $28

850 cases produced
Great classic cherry cola scents with leathery undertones. One for the wine rack!

(75)

Prahova Winecellars 1999 Prahova Valley Reserve Pinot Noir, Romania

10,000 cases produced
Interesting earthy leather nose with mature hints of cherry and vanilla.

(75)

Windward Vineyard 2000 Monopole Pinot Noir, Paso Robles, $30

1,400 cases produced
Light cranberry carried by the ocean breeze!

(75)

York Mountain Winery 1997 Pinot Noir, York Mountain, $18

150 cases produced
Over the top fruit, acid, tannin, and maturity; this wine has it all!

(75)

Barra of Mendocino 2001 Pinot Noir, Mendocino, $16

355 cases produced
Berry and cherry leaning toward bright raspberry and fruit flavors with little acid on the finish.

(73)

Mendelson Winery 2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, $37.50

600 cases produced
Deep ruby in color, lots of red berry compote flavors with hints of leather and licorice.

(73)

Prahova Winecellars 2000 Lady Gabriela Pinot Noir, Romania, $55

9000 cases produced
Deep red color in color, aromas not at all what we would expect from Pinot Noir. Perhaps we need to understand more about Pinot grown in Romania.

(70)

Prahova Winery 2000 Prahova Valley Reserve Pinot Noir, Romania

10,000 cases produced
Interesting birch bark and green peppercorn aromas with a touch of earth and a spine of cherry acidity to keep it all shiny and bright.

(70)