94
points
Benovia 2007 Cohn Vneyard Pinot Noir (Sonoma County)
- Cellar Selection
- Online Exclusive
-
$65
This least accessible of Benovia’s ‘07 Pinots is also the most ageable. Right now, the acids and tannins are locking it down. But it’s enormously rich and intense, with massively concentrated black cherry, cassis, cola and spice flavors, accented with sweet, exotic sandalwood. Of a very fine quality, this dense, young Pinot Noir will benefit from 3-5 years of age.
— S.H.
(12/22/2011)
94
points
Benovia 2007 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast)
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$45
An impressive Pinot Noir grown from a mix of vineyards in this sprawling coastal appellation. Defines the best characteristics of this fine vintage, a dry, crisp wine, brimming with luscious flavors of cherries, raspberries, cola, spices and sweet, smoky new oak. A real crowd pleaser, this Pinot should develop through 2013.
— S.H.
(11/1/2009)
93
points
Benovia 2007 Bella Una Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley)
- Cellar Selection
- Online Exclusive
-
$58
You’ll want to age this Pinot because as currently constructed it’s marked by youthful tannins and acids, as well as primary fruit flavors that have not meshed with the new oak. It’s all over the place, with lavish raspberries, cherries, vanilla, sandalwood, Dr. Pepper cola and exotic spices all vying for first place. Give it until 2011 to begin to come together.
— S.H.
(12/22/2011)
93
points
Benovia 2007 Savoy Vneyards Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley)
- Cellar Selection
- Online Exclusive
-
$58
Young and impetuous now, with sharp acids giving a jammy tang to the cherries, raspberries, orange peel, spices and sandalwood. It’s clearly a great wine, to judge by the structure, but one in need of time in the cellar. Stash it confidently until 2013.
— S.H.
(12/22/2011)
91
points
Benovia 2008 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast)
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$45
A big, strongly flavored Pinot Noir. What it may lack in subtlety, it more than makes up for in sheer power. Practically a food group in itself, with massive waves of cherries, raspberries, pomegranates, sweet rhubarb pie and sandalwood, wrapped into a silky texture. Drink now–2014.
— S.H.
(11/1/2010)