Oct 282012
 
2010 Carol Shelton Larson Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, Carneros, CA, $ 38 (S) – Rating 92

This Carneros Pinot really grabbed my attention. A boisterous nose of dark cherry, strawberry jam with notes of baking spice. Medium-bodied on the palate with flavors of strawberry jam, ripe plum and dark cherry with subtle leathery notes. Structured yet well integrated tannins and soft acidity play nicely in the long finish. 3.5% Petite Sirah in the blend adds an unexpected zip. Buy This Wine

Oct 282012
 
2010 La Crema Monterey Pinot Noir, CA, $23 (S) – Rating 90

It is hard to find an excellent value Pinot Noir… but here’s a good one. A pleasant nose of blueberry, plum dark spice with interesting notes of bramble and tobacco. Medium bodied with rich flavors of dark cherry jam, blackberry and ripe raspberry with plenty of spicy undertones, hints of leather and minerality. Soft tannins with a touch of acidity round out the wine. Buy This Wine

Sep 182012
 
2010 Belle Glos Clark & Telephone Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, CA, $41 (S) – Rating 92

Getting wineaux philosophical …this  is a sexy smooth and satisfying Pinot. The winemaker refers to this wine as “Christmas in the mouth” and that’s not far off.  A rich nose of blueberry, dark fruit and baking spice gives way to a plush mouth-feel full of rich flavors of blueberry, cherry, ripe raspberry and pie spice with notes of leather and cocoa in the finish. Balanced acidity and soft tannins add to the beauty.  Buy this Wine

Sep 182012
 
2010 Riverbench Pinot Noir, Estate Grown, Santa Maria Valley, Ca, $28 (S) – Rating 90

An easy drinking Pinot Noir at a very good price. Medium-full bodied with a nose of blueberry, raspberry and spice box. Well-balanced palette of flavors offering dark cherry, raspberry, ripe plum, and blueberry with a good dose of spiciness and acidity. Notes of leather and smoke on the finish add complexity. Buy This Wine

Aug 302012
 
2010 Belle Glos Las Alturas Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterrey County, Ca, $41 (S) – Rating 93

A beautifully lush, rich Pinot Noir with a nose of ripe dark fruit, blueberries, earthiness with notes of espresso. The rich mouth-feel is complimented by flavors of blueberry, ripe raspberries, plum, other dark fruit and companion spices. Balanced acidity and supple tannins add to the complexity. Buy This Wine