The opaque ruby/purple-colored 1999 Pinot Noir West Block (a vineyard planted in 1969 and 1970) boasts a sumptuous nose of allspice, blackberries, cherries, and toast. This multi-layered Pinot Noir exhibits uncanny balance and purity, an unctuous texture, and a 40-second finish. It is a dazzling effort. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2009. Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358

Dusty. Chinese black tea, blackstrap molasses, anise, allspice. Tons of spice rub, Chinese 5 spice, a hint of cherry. Mouth: Fruity sweetness that quickly recedes behind a wall of tannins. Spicy. Dried cherry, sour cherry candy. Rich, big, intricate, nuanced. Now - 2010. ——S.H.(6/1/2005)—— 91