There are 317 cases of the deep ruby/purple-colored 2001 Pinot Noir Flax Vineyard, planted with 100% Pommard clone next to Rochioli’s well-known Allen Vineyard. The bouquet shows classic cherry, raspberry, and root beer notes along with full-bodied, concentrated flavors with surprising elegance and a personality not dissimilar from a premier cru from the Cote de Beaune. It should drink well for 5-6 years. All things considered, 2001 and 2002 are the finest back-to-back vintages I have tasted from Williams-Selyem. Tel. (707) 433-6425; Fax (707) 433-6546

The Real McCoy of the Middle Reach, a fabulous wine. The aroma is a joy, with intricate fruit, herb, meat, spice, coffee and oak scents mingled in harmony. Turns lush and soft in the mouth, very fat, amazingly complex, with near-perfect acidity and tannins. Bone dry, and intricately layered, it’s a taste treat through the fantastically long finish. Drink now through 2010. ——S.H.(5/1/2004)—— 94