In this case, I preferred the Cuvee Catherine to the 2003 Pinot Noir Cuvee Elizabeth, which reveals raspberry, pomegranate, cherry, and plum notes, crisp, tart acidity, some flowery characteristics, a lovely, medium-bodied mid-palate, and a good finish with vibrant acidity.(Release date 3/06)Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709

Kistler’s daughter gets her name on the 250-case lot of 2002 Pinot Noir Occidental Vineyard Cuvee Elizabeth. This wine is spectacular, and while I don’t like to choose between daughters, it gets a slight nod over the Cuvee Catherine because it just seems to have a few more layers of flavor crammed into its medium to full-bodied personality. Wonderfully floral, raspberry, and kirsch notes emerge from this wine, which also shows a touch of toast, some crushed stony, rocky notes, and beautiful texture and vibrant acidity. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this wine age effortlessly for 10-15 years. It is certainly a terrific Pinot Noir which, as I said last year, comes across as California’s Musigny. (Release date 3/05)Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709

There are 150 cases of the dense purple-colored 1999 Pinot Noir Occidental Vineyard Cuvee Elizabeth. Blueberry and boysenberry liqueur infused with minerals and violets make for dazzling olfactory fireworks. On the palate, the wine is sumptuous yet remarkably fresh and lively. The wine has incredible concentration, purity, and overall equilibrium. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2012. (Not yet released)Tel. (707) 823-5603; fax (707) 823-6709

There are only a measly 50 cases of the 1998 Pinot Noir Occidental Vineyard Cuvee Elizabeth, so the tasting notes are brief ... it is an exceptional wine that represents the essence of Pinot Noir. If any readers latch onto a bottle or two, let me know. (release date 3/01)Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709