The 2006 Pinot Noir Terraces is deep ruby/purple in color, displays lots of red and blue fruits, is full-bodied, doesn’t have the nuances of the 115 or the High Density, but is not far behind in character, power, richness, and appeal. It should drink nicely for 5-7 years as well. The Melville family has one of the top vineyards in the Santa Rita Hills, and the wines are made under the supervision of Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton. It is interesting that I found the Melville Pinot Noirs far less spice-dominated, with more blue and black fruits, than those of Brewer-Clifton. That struck me as unusual because the vineyards are often close to each other geographically, and of course, the winemaking philosophy is generally the same.Tel. (805) 235-7030; Fax (805) 235-5310

In a grand tasting of new Pinot Noirs from the appellation, this bottle stood out, even among its renowned peers. Spectacularly complex, it offers a wealth of cherries, currants, orange zest, plum, fig, tea, clove and cinnamon flavors that, for all their power, never lose a sense of elegance and purity. Practically a food group of its own, this is a great California Pinot Noir.——S.H.(12/1/2008)—— 94