Winemaker Notes
True ruby in color, the 2008 Pinot Noir bottling offers aromas of strawberries and sous bois mingled with aromatic woods. Hints of sandalwood and cedar on the nose are followed by elegant fruit flavor on the palate. Berry, plum and a cherry core introduce the wine. The saturated cherry and confiture notes are rounded out by brown spice, clove and oak toast on the finish. A lushness arises from the warmer growing season, creating a lively and defined Pinot Noir with freshness and length.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The least expensive offering, the 2008 Pinot Noir Estate exhibits copious aromas of forest floor, strawberries, black cherries and hints of Allspice and herbs. Medium-bodied, beautifully textured and complex, it is ideal for drinking now and over the next 5-6 years.
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.