Aged in 60% new French oak and bottled without filtration, the deep ruby-colored 1996 Pinot Noir Carneros exhibits a smoky, spicy, more intense nose than its 1995 counterpart. The wine possesses fine ripeness, plenty of cherry/berry fruit with vague underbrush notes, and silky, round flavors. While this is not a huge Pinot Noir, it is both silky-smooth and complex. I should note that Tony Soter has a vineyard in Oregon's Willamette Valley, so readers can look forward to what should be some superlative Pinot Noirs starting with the 1998 vintage. Tony Soter, one of California's finest and most influential wine consultants, has an impressive portfolio of new offerings. Tel. (707) 257-5300; Fax (707) 257-6022