Cristom Marjorie Vineyard Pinot Noir 1998

This dark ruby colored Pinot Noir has a deeply perfumed aroma of ripe fruit that is slightly exotic and briery. The flavors are complex and also somewhat exotic with hints of chocolate, leather, sandalwood and spicy fruit. The Marjorie vineyard is usually one of our most tannic vineyards, but although the tannins are still apparent, this 1998 bottling is surprisingly supple. It has good length without being dry on the finish. Further aging of this wine will only increase its already appealing character.