Unluckily, our autumn monsoon hit Sept. 30. Those lucky producers who did reduce their crops and harvest early were rewarded with some very good wines. It has a lovely nose, with hints of oak on the palette. Straightforward in style, this is a remarkably good pinot at a great price. Another deep, dark wine.
Moderate oak adds a spicy counterpoint and complexity.
The distributor has actually lowered the price of this wine to move it out and make room for the '98s. Surprisingly light in color, this is a delicate wine more focused on finesse than power. Reminiscent of a Morey-St. Denis, there are layers of spice, cardamom, vanilla and orange peel. The mouth-feel is luxurious velvet with a seductive, exotic fruit character and an elegant, long finish.