From vines planted in 1982, the pale to medium ruby-purple 2015 Mountain Terroir Meadowlark Pinot Noir gives aromas of crushed red cherries and redcurrants, strawberry preserves and raspberries with notions of red licorice, dried coconut and dusty earth. It’s silky in the mouth, medium-bodied with good concentration of sweet red fruits and spicy accents, framed by firm but very finely grained tannins and good freshness to lift the long finish. 270 cases produced.

The 2014 Mountain Terroir Meadowlark Pinot Noir was bottled in August 2015, but will not be released until February next year. It has a slightly disjointed bouquet at the moment, quite floral with crushed rose petal and granitic notes infusing the red berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin, crisp red cherries mixed with raspberry fruit, but I am seeking a little more depth and grip on the finish. Let's see if it gains more substance with another 12 months in bottle.

The 2013 Mountain Terroir Meadlowlark Pinot Noir comes from volcanic soils and spent 12 months in barrel. The nose felt a little disjointed with light redcurrant and balsamic aromas. The palate is high-toned on the entry with sharp red cherry fruit, although the finish is just a little too sour on the finish and it needs more substance. Drink over the next 5-6 years.

The 2012 Mountain Terroir Meadowlark Pinot Noir comes from the CCW and DDW block planted in 1982 and is affected by the wind more than others. Aged in barrel for 12 months, around 25% new, it has a well-defined bouquet with black plum and raspberry scents with a floral element that blossoms in the glass: iris and violet. The palate is medium-bodied with smooth tannin, nicely judged acidity, just a little new wood to be assimilated, but just missing a little depth toward the finish that tapers in slightly. Still, this will give plenty of enjoyment over the next 4-5 years.

The fruits are slightly deeper in this “Five Elements Wine.” The fruit flavors are austere, with wild berries, dry tannins and a somewhat metallic finish. It needs more time to pull together.——P.G.(7/1/2007)—— 87