Gloriously rich on the nose, with toasty butterscotch, spice and hazelnut nuances. Bright fruit on the palate weaves a classy flavor profile of pear, apple, citrus and herb. Sleek and long on the finish, the wine is an auspicious first release from veteran Monterey winemaker Steve Pessagno. ——J.M.(12/1/2001)—— 92