Previously rated between 97 and 98, this was the best performance yet of the 2000 Estate Pinot Noir. Classic notes of forest floor, sassafras, plums, black currants, cherries, sauteed mushrooms and a meaty character make an appearance in this full-bodied, opulent, gorgeously fresh and lively Pinot Noir. At age 14, it is firing on all cylinders, and should continue to do so for another 8-10 years. This is a brilliant effort from a vintage generally deemed incapable of producing wines this profound.

The magnificent 2000 Pinot Noir Marcassin Vineyard continues to develop even more complexity. Truly great stuff, this medium to full-bodied 2000 exhibits scents of rose petals intertwined with charcuterie, spring flowers, blue and black fruits, and hints of raspberries, cola, and mint oil. This profound, extremely nuanced, powerful, exuberant Pinot Noir boasts terrific definition and personality. Anticipated maturity: now-2014. (Not yet released)Tel. (707) 258-3608; Fax (707) 942-5633