The 2008 Pinot Noir Sommers Reserve spent 6 months longer in a higher percentage of new oak than the Jefferson bottling. It exhibits a whiff of toast along with meaty black fruit notes, spice box, and incense. On the palate it displays an elegant personality along with intense fruit flavors, good balance, and enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years. It will deliver prime drinking from 2012 to 2020. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, continuity and consistency are the keys to Cristom’s success. The winemaking team led by Steve Doerner rose to the occasion, taking full advantage of the great raw materials provided by the 2008 vintage. Tel. (503) 375-3068; www.cristomwines.com