The 2006 Pinot Noir Rincon Vineyard reveals a dark ruby hue along with tightly knit aromatics (raspberries, black cherries, earth, and herbs), medium to full body, excellent ripeness, a layered mouthfeel, and a long finish. It should last for 6-8 years. The unquestionable Edna Valley reference point for Burgundy’s varietals is Talley Vineyards. Their wines eclipse any other wines made from these varietals in this region. Tel. and Fax (805) 489-0446

Talley’s Rincon bottling is a big, complicated Pinot that’s quite unresolved in youth. The 2006 is typical. Dark and full-bodied, it has opulent flavors of black currants, with tart notes of coffee and tobacco, and is completely dry. It’s also quite tannic. Should come into its own after 2010 and glide for several more years.——S.H.(3/1/2009)—— 92