This sturdy, full-bodied Pinot could almost be a Grenache, it’s so big and strong. Yet, strangely, there’s a silky elegance that tells you it’s Santa Lucia-style Pinot. Offers waves of raspberries and cherries and oranges, brightened with zesty acidity. A considerable value given the producer and origin.——S.H.(12/31/2010)—— 92

It’s hard to believe the price on this wonderful Pinot Noir. It’s such a beauty. Ripe, rich and opulent, it shows powerful flavors of cherries, raspberries, red currants, anise, cocoa and sandalwood, yet remains elegant and delicate through the long, spicy finish. Just terrific. Scoop this one up while you can.——S.H.(10/1/2009)—— 94

Here’s a savory, delicious and varietally true Pinor Noir that drinks well right away, but has the structural integrity for the cellar. With crisp, dry flavors of cherries, pomegranates, cola, tobacco and Chinese five-spice, it appeals for its exotic immediacy, but has the density to evolve for 5 or 6 years.——S.H.(9/1/2008)—— 92