The 2008 Alazan Pinot Noir is dark ruby red in color with an enticing perfume of wood smoke, spice box, cherry blossom, cranberry, and black raspberry. Medium-bodied and silky-textured, it elegantly displays spicy dark fruits, good balance, and a pure finish. Give it another 1-2 years to fully blossom and drink it from 2011 to 2018. Importer: Unknown

Kingston’s top-level Pinot Noir has been a consistent scorer for the past three vintages. The 2008 starts with pure raspberry and cherry aromas as well as tea accents, while the textbook palate has a proper feel and tasty raspberry and cherry flavors. Spice notes and integrated oak help it achieve its status as one of Chile’s truest, most recognizable Pinot Noirs. Drink now through 2011; 300 cases made. ——M.S.(3/1/2010)—— 91