Pale ruby colored, the 2008 Soultaker Pinot Noir gives ripe cherry, kirsch, red plum and spice box notes with a whiff of red licorice. Medium bodied with soft tannins, there’s a good amount of pure berry flavor in the mouth, finishing long. Drinking now, it should remain fresh through 2014. Importer: Grapevine Distributers, Mount Pleasant, SC

Medium-deep ruby in color, the 2007 Soultaker Pinot Noir presents ripe black cherry and warm raspberry aromas with some hints of Mediterranean herbs and forest floor. Medium bodied, the palate offers just enough fruit supported by a medium level of velvety tannins and crisp acid, and finishing with good persistence. Drink it now to 2014. Importer: Grapevine Distributers, Mount Pleasant, SC

Again, where have the aromatics gone? Faint touches of ripe cherry but little else. The palate is better: light-bodied with some sweet red cherry and strawberry fruit, good acidity and nice poise on the soft finish. Fine, but no great shakes. Tasted January 2008. Drink 2008-2012