All the oaky, leesy richness is there, with buttered toast, crème brûlée and smoky buttercream, and tons of fruity ripeness, with a blast of Meyer lemon, pineapple, white peach and apricot. Yet there’s also a firm, steely minerality, and, despite the dryness, maybe even a delicious touch of botrytis. The acidity is mouthwatering.
— S.H.
(3/1/2010)
This is a big, full-bodied Pinot Noir. If you’re seeking a delicate style, go elsewhere. It’s fleshy and precociously rich in cherry and mulberry fruit that’s soft and chewy, like a candy bar. Such are the acids and tannins that you’ll want to cellar it for three or four years.
— S.H.
(3/1/2012)
Strongly flavored, in the way of certain Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnays, with dried apricot, pineapple and oak flavors. There may even be some botrytis, although the finish is very dry. This is a wine to challenge sommeliers and home chefs.
— S.H.
(3/1/2012)
This is a dry, acidic, tannic and earthy Syrah. It has impressively deep flavors of black and red cherries, bacon and sandalwood, and gets better as it breathes in the glass. Not an ager, but give it a few hours in a nice decanter.
— S.H.
(3/1/2011)
Flatters the palate with bold, rich buttered toast, pineapple-tangerine jam and spicy oak flavors, brightened with crisp Monterey acidity. It’s not subtle, but powerful in the modern Chardonnay style.
— S.H.
(5/1/2013)
Tasted in a flight of Pinot Noirs, this one stood out for a raisiny, pruny note, suggesting exceedingly ripe, even shriveled grapes. That gave it some bitterness throughout, although it’s still quite a good wine. A pity, because otherwise it’s a lovely wine, with refined tannins and wonderfully crisp acids.
— S.H.
(3/1/2010)
Lots of rich cherry jam, cola, cranberry and mushroom flavors in this dry, tart Pinot Noir. It’s a bit brusque in texture, but the spiciness gives it a savory finish. Drink now.
— S.H.
(5/1/2013)
Rather acidic now, giving a sweet and sour taste to the cherry, raspberry and oak flavors. On the plus side is dryness and silkiness.
— S.H.
(3/1/2011)